Diego Pacheco demonstrated significant technical improvement in his victory over Immanuwel Aleem. Working with new trainer Buddy McGirt, Pacheco controlled the fight with a commanding jab and sound defence, reinforcing his decision to delay a world title challenge until fully prepared.
The performance was a clear departure from his previous bout against Kevin Sadjo, a contest in which Pacheco endured considerable punishment and suffered the first knockdown of his career. Against Aleem, he was defensively disciplined and controlled the distance from the start. This tactical control was his first outing under the guidance of veteran trainer Buddy McGirt. The change was immediately apparent. Compubox statistics showed Pacheco landed 44.2 percent of his total punches, effectively keeping Aleem on the outside and unable to mount any consistent offence. Aleem, in contrast, connected on just 24.1 percent of his attempts, struggling to get inside Pacheco’s reach. The dominant nature of the win was amplified by the fact that WBC interim champion Lester Martinez was taken to a hard-fought decision by Aleem, a challenge Pacheco handled with ease.
The victory validates Pacheco’s recent career choices. He was offered a world title fight against WBO champion Hamzah Sheeraz but declined, opting to build chemistry with his new corner first. Promoter Eddie Hearn supported the move, stating Pacheco made a “sensible decision choosing to wait for a title match, being that he had a new training team and Pacheco preferred to take the fight until he was ready at 100 percent.” This patience is aimed at preparing him for the division’s elite, with Pacheco naming Jaime Munguia, Christian Mbilli, Hamzah Sheeraz, and Canelo Alvarez as desired future opponents. His progression continues with a potential return to the ring later in the year. Hearn said he “hopes to have Pacheco fight at this venue again this year, around October or November, but will keep their options open if a big fight comes along.”
