By Loke Lamhauge Barrett.
History will be made this Saturday when Airtox Dominance FC crowns the first-ever champion in promotional history. Originally, Jon Stadil Palm was scheduled to face Romario Jaguar for the belt, but after he was forced to withdraw due to injury, teammate Joakim “Sonic” Jankovic stepped in to seize the opportunity. The timing adds a fascinating layer to this matchup – while Jaguar enters riding the momentum of a commanding promotional debut, Jankovic returns after a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Yet despite a frustrating period marked by various setbacks, he never abandoned plans of coming back to the sport. After years of preparation, he may well be a better fighter than the one last seen in action.
Jankovic enters far more experienced than his 3-2 professional record might suggest. Fighting out of Burnell MMA in Søborg, Denmark – one of the country’s leading training environments – the former three-time Danish judo champion has built his game around strong entries, heavy top pressure, and relentless ground-and-pound. Once he establishes side control, transitions to mount or crucifix often follow, allowing him to steadily break down opponents.
Before his layoff, Jankovic appeared to be building serious momentum. In his most recent appearance back in 2023, he captured the MTGP championship, showcasing the well-rounded skill set that has long set him apart on the Danish regional scene. His resume includes experience under the Brave CF banner, where he suffered his first defeat despite an otherwise impressive showing. The only other blemish on his record came in a back-and-forth war with current PFL fighter Khamzat Abaev, where he showcased the toughness and determination that have become hallmarks of his style. Combined with solid boxing fundamentals and punishing low kicks, he should be the toughest challenge of Jaguar’s career to date.
Representing Reborn Fight Team in Pontinha, just outside Lisbon, Portugal, the unbeaten 4-0 Jaguar is one of the hottest prospects currently competing on the European scene. He has earned a reputation through his physicality, pace, and constant work rate. He combines explosive double-leg takedowns with strong top control and sustained ground-and-pound. Rather than chasing submissions, he prefers to wear opponents out, accumulating damage until openings present themselves.
Entering his Airtox Dominance FC debut overshadowed by the flamboyant Benjamin Hauser, Jaguar left little room for debate once the cage door closed. Using his wrestling and cardio, he repeatedly dragged the Norwegian into deep waters, dominating the fight before eventually securing a late finish. By the final bell, it was Jaguar – not Hauser – who had stolen the evening’s headlines.
Both men are at their best when imposing themselves physically and forcing opponents to work. Both possess strong grappling foundations and excellent conditioning, creating the potential for a grueling battle in close quarters. At the same time, their strengths may largely cancel each other out, forcing a striking contest. Either way, the winner will have earned every bit of the gold.