The light heavyweight division is about to get an international shakeup.
Peter Truchlik is officially making his American debut at Power Slap 18, stepping in against Luke Simonds in what could be one of the most important fights of his career.
Ranked No. 8 in the world, Truchlik isn’t coming to test the waters.
He’s coming with one goal:
“If I want to become champion, I have to beat everyone.”
From Europe to America: Peter Truchlik Arrives
While this will be his first Power Slap appearance in the United States, Truchlik is no stranger to competing on American soil.
He previously fought in Ohio, including events connected to the Arnold Classic scene, where slap fighting began gaining mainstream traction.
But this is different.
This is Power Slap — the biggest stage in the sport.
“Power Slap is the greatest organization in the world. If I want to be the best, I have to win the belt.”
A Battle-Tested Debut: Fighting Heavyweights as a Rookie
What makes Truchlik’s rise compelling is how he entered the sport.
His very first slap fighting competition wasn’t in his natural division — it was in an openweight tournament.
At roughly 93 kilograms (205 lbs), he entered a bracket filled with:
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120 kg (265 lbs) opponents
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150 kg (330 lbs) opponents
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Former champions
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Veterans with experience
It was a pyramid-style tournament — win and advance.
He worked his way to the semifinals.
And here’s the kicker:
He did it with a broken cheekbone.
After absorbing multiple heavy slaps earlier in the bracket, he stepped in against a much heavier former champion — and became the first man to visibly rock that opponent.
He ultimately lost via disqualification under controversial circumstances.
But the message was clear.
He belonged.
Confidence Rooted in Fire
When asked where his confidence comes from, the answer wasn’t flashy.
It was simple.
“My mindset has no limits.”
After fighting through broken bones, size disadvantages, and heavyweight power, Truchlik believes there’s nothing in the light heavyweight division that can intimidate him.
He sees Luke Simonds as a good fighter.
But not one stronger than him.
“I’m sure he never had a stronger opponent like me. And he will never have.”
Luke Simonds vs. Peter Truchlik: A Pivotal Light Heavyweight Bout
Truchlik has studied Simonds.
He knows the record. He’s watched the tape.
But he isn’t concerned with resumes.
“For me, everyone is weak. It doesn’t matter.”
That mentality may sound extreme — but it aligns with his long-term objective.
He doesn’t want just one win.
He wants the belt.
Title Aspirations Already in Motion
With three light heavyweight fights on the Power Slap 18 card — including:
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Alan Klingbeil vs. Logan Greenhalgh
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Wolverine vs. The Crazy Hawaiian (title fight)
Truchlik sees opportunity.
If he defeats Simonds by knockout, he wants the next step to be immediate.
Specifically?
He has his eye on fighting the loser of the championship bout.
He’s not interested in slow climbs.
He’s targeting relevance right away.
What Power Slap Means to Peter
For Truchlik, Power Slap isn’t just another promotion.
It’s the pinnacle.
“I live like a champion. I do everything for it.”
He already holds championship pedigree from other organizations. But in his eyes, none of it matters unless he conquers the biggest stage.
And that stage is now in Las Vegas.
The Alligator Enters the Arena
Backed by his translator and longtime associate Pavel Horelichan, Truchlik arrives with international experience, battle scars, and unwavering belief.
He’s fought heavier men.
He’s fought injured.
He’s fought through chaos.
Now he fights Luke Simonds.
Power Slap 18 may mark his American debut — but in his mind, it’s just the first step toward something bigger.
“I have to beat everyone.”
And on fight night in Las Vegas, he plans to prove it.