THE BANTAMWEIGHT DIVISION OF BRAVE COMBAT FEDERATION is going through an exciting phase. Though it is young, the division is filled with a string of talented fighters and one notable name from the lot is Jeremy Pacatiw.
The Philippines based Pacatiw has been a mainstay in the division since its inception and has fought four fights in the promotion so far. Currently holding a professional record of 6-2, ‘The Juggernaut’ last appeared at the historic Brave 9: The Kingdom of Champions.
Pacatiw suffered a first round defeat against Jalal Al Daaja at the event and the loss derailed his attempts to make it three wins in a row. Despite the defeat, The Team Lakay fighter has his spirits high and is eager to bounce back.
Jeremy Pacatiw: I’m hungry and so eager to bounce back after that fight. I want to straightly go back to the gym and sharpen my weapons. It was not my time that night. I executed our game plan but my opponent was lucky to get me. I tried to get up and be in position but time was in his side.
Even though getting back on the winning track is important for him, Pacatiw is not sure about whom he wants to face next and leaves the decision to Brave Combat Federation and his coaches.
Jeremy Pacatiw: I know that there are a lot of bantamweight fighters in BRAVE. Right now, I don't have a name in my mind whom I want to fight. It depends on my coach and BRAVE to decide who I will face in the cage in my next fight
While Pacatiw suffered a defeat at Brave 9, his teammate Stephen Loman went on to capture gold. Loman defeated Gurdarshan Mangat to become the inaugural Brave CF Bantamweight Champion and for Pacatiw, it was an overwhelming moment.
Jeremy Pacatiw: When the referee stopped the fight, I was jumping because of pure happiness. I couldn't contain my emotion, they were mixed. I am very very proud of him.
Loman’s title win completely turned the Bantamweight division upside down. And it also opened up the possibility of a fight between Loman and Pacatiw. Becoming champion might be the ultimate achievement for most fighters out there, but Pacatiw is not willing to put his relationship with Loman on the risk.
Jeremy Pacatiw: If I win in my next fight, that can put me back in a title opportunity. However, for me, I'm not going to fight my own team mate and our Champion. I know it's going to be a huge opportunity but not against my own brother. Destroying our relationship is not an option.
And it is quite understandable as well. Pacatiw, Loman and the entire Team Lakay has been instrumental in promoting Mixed Martial Arts in the Philippines. The sport might still be making baby steps, but some huge improvements are there to be seen. The title win of Loman, is bound to be a catalyst.
Jeremy Pacatiw: The support is overwhelming. They support the sport and also, they are promoting it. Fighters from my country like to represent the Philippine flag to the best they could, however, they face various problems like financial support and training facilities and equipment. I hope in the future, these hindrances will be addressed.
With the likes of Pacatiw and Loman on the rise, it could only be a matter of time before MMA gets the recognition it deserves in the Philippines.