Rolando Dy named Brave Fighter of the Year

Rolando Dy holds his 2020 Brave Fighter of the Year trophy. Brave CF

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--New weight class, newfound glory for Rolando Dy.

Dy capped a smooth transition to the Brave Combat Federation lightweight division this year by taking home the promotion's Fighter of the Year award as announced on Wednesday.

After struggling in form last year in the 145-pound division, Dy decided to try his luck at 155, and now, he may start the new year with a title shot in his new division.

The fact that Dy won two bouts on short notice when Brave resumed action just as the COVID-19 restrictions in Bahrain began to ease up made his victories even much sweeter.

Dy first stunned Maciek Gierszewski via split decision at Brave CF 42 last September.

“I just showed in the fight last September that I am not a one-dimensional fighter. I was able to strike, grapple, take and defend his best shots, and dictate the tempo from start to finish,” the 29-year-old recalled. “They say I am only a striker. That fight only proved that I am a complete fighter.”

He then defeated 2019 Breakout Fighter of the Year John Brewin at Brave CF 44 through a unanimous decision.

The back-to-back wins put him in a position to challenge Amin Ayoub for the lightweight belt, and a victory would make him the second active Filipino Brave champ after bantamweight king Stephen Loman.

“Anytime, anywhere, I am ready to suit up and fight. Just give me the time and date. I promise you that I’ll be there,” Dy vowed.

But for now, as he awaits that time, he will cherish his latest achievement.

“It’s truly an honor to have this award. This trophy is a testament of my dedication, hard work, and sacrifice to be one of the best fighters in the world. It is a very proud moment for myself, my family and my beloved country—hopefully, this is the first of many,” Dy stated.

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