Carlos Alvarez’s long wait for an opportunity to return to the winner’s circle ends this October.
The 25-year-old Baguio City native reports for duty on the undercard of ONE Friday Fights 82. There, he takes on Russia’s Mirza Aliev in a three-round featherweight MMA encounter, happening live at the iconic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on October 4.
Last year, “The Limitless” made an immediate splash in ONE Championship’s developmental circuit, which has served as “the launching pad for rising stars.”
His first three assignments were nothing short of spectacular, with Alvarez steamrolling through his opponents. He earned two submission victories and a knockout, rapidly positioning himself as a standout prospect in the promotion.
By the end of 2023, Alvarez appeared to be on the cusp of breaking into main roster. One more win would have secured him a $100,000 contract.
However, his path took an unexpected detour when he locked horns with Nachyn Sat in December 2023.
In a grueling clash, the Mongolian bruiser pushed Alvarez to his limits, eventually handing the Filipino his first career loss via a second-round technical knockout.
Nearly ten months later, Alvarez now gets the chance to rebuild his momentum and prove his worth to join teammate Carlo Bumina-ang in the organization’s elite ranks.
But standing in his way is an undefeated up-and-comer who has been on a tear since turning professional in 2022.
Aliev’s burgeoning-yet-explosive run in the sport has showcased his finishing ability. He dispatched his debut foe in just 18 seconds and followed that up with a 55-second submission in his sophomore appearance.
While Alvarez represents a significant step up in competition for Aliev, the Russian is looking to sustain his impressive streak and establish himself on the global stage.
