Undisputed ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua “The Passion” Pacio will once again carry the hopes of the entire Philippines onto the global stage, heading into arguably the biggest fight of his decorated career.
After emphatically ending his rivalry with Jarred Brooks, the 29-year-old will seek to join ONE Championship’s prestigious group of two-division World Champions when he moves up a weight class to challenge Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu for the ONE Flyweight MMA World Title.
This epic champion vs champion battle will take place at ONE 173: Superbon Vs. Noiri on November 16 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.
But to achieve history as the first Filipino two-division MMA World Champion, the Lions Nation MMA ward must beat one of the most feared knockout artists in the promotion.
Pacio admitted that defeating Wakamatsu, who’ll be feeding off the energy of the Japanese crowd, won’t be an easy feat:
“Yuya is not the king of the flyweight division for nothing. He’s at the top because he’s earned it—he’s the best right now. I’ve seen how dangerous he is, especially with his power and speed, and I respect what he brings to the table.”
“I know I’m facing a tough challenge, but I’m ready to give my best and represent the Philippines with pride.”
The streaking Wakamatsu is on a four-fight winning streak, capped off by his one-round destruction of former champion Adriano Moraes to capture the ONE Flyweight MMA crown at ONE 172 last March.
Pacio, however, believes he can slow down Wakamatsu’s momentum and make his fellow Filipinos proud at ONE 173. “The Passion” added:
“I expect this to be a fast-paced and strategic bout. We’re both intelligent fighters who know how to adapt, so I believe this match will be both exciting and high-level. I’m looking forward to testing myself and putting on a great show for the fans.”
Fight Game Asia 