Filipino slugger Rolando Dy was named Fighter of the Year by the BRAVE Combat Federation after an impressive showing in the lightweight division.
Dy, the son of boxing icon and former world champion Rolando Navarrete, took home two decisive wins this year after scaling up from the featherweight rank.
"It’s truly an honor to have this award," said Dy. "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 came back stronger in the lightweight division after suffering two knockout defeats as a featherweight last year.
The 29-year-old Dy beat Maciej Gierszweski of Poland in a hard-earned split decision win last September before defeating John Brewin of New Zealand with a unanimous decision victory more than a month later.
Dy, a former UFC talent, said the September bout is proof to the doubters that he's more than just a striker but rather a well-rounded mixed martial artist able to adapt to different fighting styles.
As for the November clash, the Parañaque-based fighter accepted BRAVE's offer to substitute for injured Sam Patterson against Brewin.
In two weeks' notice, Dy flew to Bahrain and dominated the 2019 Breakout Fighter of the Year in three rounds to move a step closer to the lightweight title shot.
"When my back is against the wall, I shine and prove my doubters wrong,” added Dy, who holds a 14-9 record.
The 2020 Fighter of the Year is raring to get back in action and plans to take down Frenchman Amin Ayoub and grab the lightweight belt next year.
“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," said Dy.