GEJE Eustaquio showcased the best performance of his career as he exacted revenge on Kairat Akhmetov, winning via unanimous decision to take the interim ONE Flyweight title in the main event of Global Superheroes on Friday at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The 28-year-old Baguio native got back at his Kazakh foe after in controversial fashion last September, dominating his foe in toe-to-toe exchanges while neutralizing Akhmetov on the ground for a well-deserved decision victory in front of his home fans.
“I would like to tell you, this belt is not mine today but it’s ours. My family is always there from Day One, Mark Sangiao and team Lakay never doubted me. Always believed that I will be here,” said Eustaquio.
“I’m proud to represent this flag and country all over the world. Ladies and gentlemen, a world champion is from the third world country in the Philippines,” he added.
Eustaquio, who improved to 10-6, will now face Brazilian Adriano Moraes in a unification bout late this year.
Eustaquio showed improved grappling skills as he managed to control the fight, avoiding Akhmetov’s takedown attempts for most of the fight and turning the match into a striking battle.
Eustaquio’s submission defense was as impressive and he went on an offensive in the first round where he went for a knee bar on the fancied Kazakh grappler.
But he had to survive adversity after Akhmetov put on a guillotine choke with less than a minute to go in round three, but Eustaquio was composed all throughout, burning out the clock to survive the round.
The Team Lakay standout returned the favor in Round Four when he put on the same choke, but ultimately slipped with seconds left in the round.
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