Following the exciting quarterfinal rounds, attention now turns to the WGP 84 tournament finals. This single-evening event will feature the best lightweight athletes from South America`s foremost kickboxing promotion as they vie for the championship title.
The opening semifinal matchup pits experienced veteran Francisco Mairon, a Muay Thai specialist known for his kicking and clinching skills, against Watson de Castro. De Castro, an MMA fighter, secured his spot in the semifinals after pulling off an upset win against Teodoro Ruiz in the quarterfinal stage.
The second semifinal features former WGP Title challenger Edgar Boca, recognized for his aggressive pressure style, facing German `Lobito` Badallo. Badallo earned this slot after a stunning stoppage victory over Nicolas Tardiolli in his WGP debut. Both Boca and Badallo were initially seen as underdogs, but their stellar quarterfinal showings have cemented their status as dark horses in the Grand Prix.
Moving to the opposite side of the bracket, we find Paulo Victor, considered a favorite, known for his powerful, heavy-handed strikes and prioritizing knockout power over high volume. He is set to clash with Jackson Elitelmo, a fighter with a similar amateur background but a contrasting style focused on careful distance management and accumulating points.
The last semifinal features the overwhelming tournament favorite and the biggest star in the field: the reigning WGP Lightweight Champion, Cabelo Monteiro. Monteiro is celebrated for his comprehensive skill set, exceptional cardio, and high-volume offense. His challenge, however, will be Jhonatan Hora, arguably the hardest puncher in the entire Grand Prix. Hora brings devastating knockout power, evidenced by his perfect six-for-six stoppage record in professional boxing, a power he successfully carried into kickboxing with a first-round KO of Felipe Artillero in the preceding round.
The WGP 84 event is guaranteed to deliver an intense and memorable evening of kickboxing. As the promotion`s final event of the year, it is set to be the most exciting card yet.
Oliver Croft