On February 18th, a household name in the Titan FC community, Landon Quinones (5-1-1), returns to action at Titan FC 74.
The 26-year-old is set for his seventh walk to the Titan FC cage after the most tenured layoff of his martial arts career. Following his convincing victory over Geralbert Castillo at Titan FC 61 in June of 2020, Quinones was scheduled to appear on Dana White's Contender Series in late 2020. However, the week of the fight he contracted COVID-19 and was forced out of the bout. Three months later, the South Florida native was set for his first pro championship bout at Titan FC 67. A couple weeks prior to fight night, he suffered a knee injury, which required surgery and held him out for quite a while. As a competitor, it wasn't easy being out of competition, but his patience and diligence got him through the process. In his return, Quinones believes the stars are aligning and it's his time to shine.
"I've been through a lot, but time heals all wounds," he said. "It's my time to let them know I'm here to take what's mine."
South Florida’s, Quinones, was introduced to the world of martial arts as a kid, taking part in Jiu-Jitsu classes. It wasn't until his mid-to-late teen years in which he realized he could see himself having a future in the sport. After moving to ATT Sunrise and training with, notable figure in the Titan FC community, Roger Krahl, his game evolved to another level. Now doing his training at both, ATT Sunrise and Sanford MMA, it’s clear Quinones will have an equipped arsenal in his return. He elaborated on his appreciation for his coaches and how he enjoys representing his hometown.
“I’m happy to represent,” he said. “I hope it shows someone where I’m from that they can make it.”
Going into his return, Quinones’ mindset is one that seems to be in a perfect place. It has to be taxing, mentally and physically, to go through the things he did within the last two years. His preparation and belief in himself have helped him keep a strong mind and a positive attitude. Being out of the cage for over a year and a half hasn’t stopped “The Lone Wolf” from growing inside the cage and out. Quinones is aware this won’t be an easy test on February 18th, but he knows he’s confident in his skill set and prepared for battle.
The Floridian will take on Kyrgyzstan’s Myktybek Orulbayuulu at Titan FC 74 for the Titan FC lightweight title. Although, Quinones will be the hometown hero, he knows he must be at the top of his game come fight night. With that being said, he is confident he’ll get his hand raised and take home gold.
“I think we match up great. We’re both pressure fighters so it will be a banger,” he said. “He’s a jack of all trades, but a master of none. I will drown this boy.”
It’s no secret there will be exhilarating action when Landon Quinones steps in that cage. To say that his journey is inspiring, would be an understatement. It’s uncommon to find someone as resilient, patient and mentally tough as Quinones. He has the skillset to be one of the best in the world one day and a victory at Titan FC 74 will be a stepping-stone to the top. On February 18th, he will make sure the world remembers his name.
By: Coby Weinsier