Filipino mixed martial artist Ruel “Bagsik” Pañales made a strong comeback as he clinched a unanimous decision win over Jordanian fighter Faris Asha during UAE Warriors 60, held on June 13 at the Space42 Arena in Abu Dhabi.
Competing in the bantamweight division, Pañales showcased his grit and well-rounded skillset throughout the match, bouncing back from his earlier PFL debut loss in January this year. His return to the cage was a significant moment, especially after he revealed that he had undergone surgery to amputate the tip of one of his fingers following a motorcycle accident before his Dubai fight in January.
Despite that setback, the 28-year-old fighter from the Philippines powered through his recovery and returned with renewed determination. Pañales, who trains out of DyIncredible Fighting & Fitness Center, now improves his professional MMA record to 7 wins and 3 losses.
His fans, many from the Filipino community in the UAE, welcomed his return, with messages of support pouring in both online and at the event.
UAE Warriors 60 featured 12 matchups, including a flyweight title bout and a co-main event starring ex-UFC fighters. Pañales’ win added to the evening’s excitement and reinforced his growing reputation as one of the top Filipino MMA prospects in the region.
