Chizov Edged Pacella in Nantes to Reach the Lightweight
Alex Chizov defeated Claudio Pacella by split decision in a PFL Europe lightweight semifinal on September 26, 2025, in Nantes. Two judges scored the fight 29–28 for Chizov, while the third returned the same score for Pacella after three competitive rounds.
An active striking battle developed early
Chizov worked behind straight punches and a jab as Pacella answered with combinations. Neither fighter established an uncontested path through the opening exchanges.
Their tournament routes had already required different kinds of victories. Chizov knocked out Mark Ewen in May, while Pacella advanced with a decision over Gavin Hughes. In Nantes, both had to negotiate another demanding matchup.
The second round kept the contest closely contested
Pacella attacked heavily at the beginning of the second, but Chizov continued finding his jab and right hand. Swelling developed around Pacella’s eye as the exchanges accumulated.
An attempt to change the action through wrestling against the fence did not give Pacella a simple solution. Chizov’s striking remained an important part of his case going into the final round.
Late grappling preceded the split verdict
Pacella landed a strong right hand in the third and later secured a takedown. Chizov escaped a submission threat, and the closing stages brought more positional exchanges near the fence.
The verdict advanced Chizov to the December final in Lyon against Connor Hughes, who won the other semifinal. Nantes determined a championship finalist; the lightweight title itself was reserved for the subsequent deciding bout.
