Achilles Estremadium is itching to step back inside the octagon.
Like countless Canadian fighters, Estremadium spent much of the pandemic without a fight. The Vancouver-born competitor last appeared in February 2020, successfully retaining his BFL lightweight championship with a decision victory over Kerry Lattimer at BFL 65.
Following that triumph, the 28-year-old set his sights on another belt defense and a shot at Dana White's Contender Series — neither of which materialized.
Now, after months of anticipation for BFL's comeback, Estremadium headlines BFL 66 in front of his home crowd in Vancouver, aiming to add a fourth successful title defense to his resume.
"I'm thrilled to finally get back in there and defend my belt," Estremadium told MMA Empire.
"It's tough for a lot of us to secure fights right now. That challenge keeps me locked in and motivated."
Beyond being the night's main event, Estremadium will also star on the first-ever BFL broadcast on UFC Fight Pass.
For the Vancouver native, the added exposure brings extra buzz, but he insists his focus remains unchanged.
"There's definitely a lot of excitement surrounding this card and my bout," Estremadium noted.
"Some solid local prospects are climbing through the amateur and pro divisions, but at the end of the day, a fight is a fight. Whether it's the main event or not, I'm dedicated to delivering a performance I can take pride in."
On March 19, Estremadium takes on 33-fight veteran Curtis Demarce. Despite the Brandon, Man.-born fighter riding a two-fight skid and sitting at 18-15 professionally, Estremadium refuses to underestimate his opponent.
The BFL lightweight champion respects Demarce's extensive experience and understands the danger posed by a seasoned campaigner. His objective: secure the victory and attract UFC interest.
"He was the opponent available, and Curtis is clearly a veteran with plenty of experience under his belt," Estremadium explained. "I understand where I stand in my career and where I'm meant to be."
"My hope is that a win here puts me on the Contender Series radar and proves I belong among the elite."
While a victory tops Estremadium's priorities, he recognizes that earning a Contender Series invitation requires more than just a win — it demands a finish.
Having gone the distance in his last two outings, Estremadium knows the UFC promotion is hunting for exciting knockouts, and he's convinced he can deliver another devastating finish.
"My team and I have discussed this extensively," Estremadium said. "I need to produce an entertaining fight and secure the stoppage. A dull decision win won't earn me a Contender Series invite or a deal with a major promotion."
"But I've stayed sharp on my feet, and the knockout is coming. I'm a fighter people enjoy watching, and I trust my abilities to deliver an exciting performance while picking up the stoppage victory. I know when I connect cleanly, I'll end the fight."
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