ONE Championship fighter and strawwweight champion Joshua Pacio. –ONE CHAMPIONSHIP PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—Joshua Pacio has found success in ONE Championship’s strawweight division. Now, he wants to see just how far his ambition takes him as he embarks on a journey in the flyweight division.
Pacio, the reigning ONE strawweight world champion, is scheduled to challenge flyweight champion Yuya Wakamatsu in a champion versus champion clash.
READ: Joshua Pacio ends Jarred Brooks, strawweight debate
“This fight is another chapter in my journey as a martial artist,” said Pacio, who is vying to be the Philippines’ first two-division titlist in ONE Championship.
“It’s not a comeback — it’s a new challenge that I’ve embraced to grow and evolve. I’ve always believed in continuous improvement, and this is another chance to push my limits and pursue greatness.”
Pacio is coming off a momentous win over Jarred Brooks in their third fight in February for ONE 171.
READ: At Lions’ den, Joshua Pacio becomes a symbol
The Lions Nations MMA standout became the undisputed king of the strawweight battleground after defeating Brooks via TKO in the 37-second mark of their bout’s second round.
His opponent, Wakamatsu, has some momentum himself.
The reigning Flyweight MMA Champion notched his crown with a stunning win over Brazilian legend Adrian Moraes in the first round of their ONE 172 match in March.
Safe to say that he’s not going to just roll over for the Filipino bet. Especially not in his hometown.
“This belt is something I fought for with everything I have—it’s the result of my life’s dedication. I won’t give it up easily. By defending it, I want to prove my worth as a true champion. I’m going into this with everything I’ve got,” Wakamatsu said.
“I’m truly happy to be fighting in Japan again. It’s something special to be able to showcase my fight in front of my family and the fans who’ve always supported me,” he added.
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Wakamatsu and Pacio go on a collision course on November 16 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan, for ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri.