MMA: Jeremy Pacatiw willing to risk ranking against menacing debutant Elbek Alyshov

Filipino bantamweight contender Jeremy “The Juggernaut” Pacatiw is embracing a high-stakes challenge, willingly putting his #5 ranking on the line against undefeated Russian debutant Elbek Alyshov at ONE Fight Night 34: Eersel vs. Jarvis on August 2 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

For many fighters, facing a promotional newcomer, especially one with a perfect record but unproven on the global stage, presents a high-risk, low-reward scenario. 

A loss could significantly drop a ranked fighter down the ladder, while a win might not offer a substantial leap. However, Pacatiw, a product of Lions Nation MMA, views this bout as a calculated gamble essential for his championship aspirations.

“This is a risky fight. I’m facing a debuting opponent and I’m already [in] the top five so there’s a risk involved there, but I’m taking it as a challenge,” Pacatiw stated in a recent interview. “I’m looking at it as me protecting my space from a newcomer. And I know that if I win here, I might get another shot at those ranked higher than me.”

Pacatiw’s willingness to take on the 8-0 Alyshov stems from a crucial understanding: inactivity can be more detrimental than a tough matchup. After suffering a unanimous decision loss to Enkh-Orgil Baatarkhuu in April, Pacatiw is eager for a quick turnaround and to maintain his momentum.

“I might be facing someone who’s only debuting, but I want to stay active, so I didn’t really think twice in taking the fight because I want to keep pushing,” he explained.

Jeremy Pacatiw returns to action against Elbek Alyshov at ONE Fight Night 34: Eersel vs. Jarvis on August 2.

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Alyshov, while new to ONE Championship, brings an unblemished record and a reputation for finishing fights. This makes him a significant unknown, a “dangerous debutant” as Pacatiw acknowledges. Yet, for the Filipino veteran, this challenge is an opportunity to prove his mettle and demonstrate that his championship dreams are still very much alive.

“There’s risks of course, but what’s life without risks? Because if I win here, I’m back once more on the right track,” Pacatiw affirmed. “It’s hard to predict but all I can say is I’ll be ready wherever this fight goes, and I’ll have my hands raised after this bout.”

The August 2 showdown at Lumpinee Stadium will be a true test of Pacatiw’s experience and strategic mindset against the raw, unbeaten power of Alyshov. For “The Juggernaut,” it’s not just about protecting a ranking; it’s about proving he belongs among the elite and is ready to make a significant move towards the bantamweight world title.

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