KEANU Subba’s martial arts journey was made possible because of one man, an individual he describes as a hero – Papa Subba.
The father of the country’s top featherweight mixed martial arts talent is always seen at Keanu’s corner during every battle, but off-camera the supportive dad remains by his son’s side in victory or defeat.
He is his son’s number one fan.
“My dad has always been our number one supporter. He believed in us before we even started competing, and that just shows you his character,” the ONE Championship warrior said about him and his brother, Gianni.
“My dad enrolled us in taekwondo when we were 8 and 10. I remember when I first learned Muay Thai, my dad would pay for my taxi fares and gym fees to travel all the way to Ampang.”
Besides supporting the former MIMMA Champion in his career, Papa never fails to guide his sons on how to be better individuals outside the Circle as well.
“He’s shaped me into the man I am today. He always reminds me that I need to be consistent and disciplined to achieve something in life,” Keanu said.
The advice and guidance he received from his father have been indispensable. It helped him notch an impressive record in the world’s largest martial arts organisation, and at the same time, give him the strength and courage to power through his recovery.
“During times like these, you realise how much more everyone around you means to you,” he said.
“My dad, fiancé, and Gianni have helped me in various ways, and I cannot be more thankful to have such a strong team.”
Keanu, competing out of Monarchy MMA, believes a strong team can help anyone to overcome their toughest challenges. More so, if you have a person like Papa Subba by your side.
“The most important thing when I first started martial arts was to get support from everyone.”
“And he was just there all the time.”
“I’m thankful for the values he’s shared with me, and I hope it keeps developing me into someone better.”
ONE Championship travels to Manila, Philippines next for ONE: FIRE & FURY on Friday, Jan 31.
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