Undisputed ONE strawweight MMA world champion Joshua Pacio is seeking to join an exclusive group when he moves up a weight class to challenge Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu for the ONE Flyweight MMA World Title.
After emphatically ending his rivalry with Jarred Brooks, the 29-year-old Pacio will now try to be a two-division world champion — the first Filipino to achieve this feat.
This epic champion vs. champion battle will take place at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on November 16 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.
However, Pacio knows that he has a tough task ahead, as he will take on a feared knockout artist in his home court.
“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,” said Pacio.
“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.
“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,” said “The Passion.”
Wakamatsu, for his part, has nothing but respect for his fellow world champion.
“Joshua Pacio is the current world champion and a dangerous fighter with well-rounded skills. But I believe that if I stick to what I need to do, I will definitely come out on top,” said Wakamatsu.
The Japanese champion has been a thorn in the side of the Philippines, notching victories over Danny Kingad and Geje Eustaquio.
That said, Wakamatsu insists he knows what to expect from Pacio and is confident he’ll leave Ariake Arena with his 26 pounds of gold in tow.
“We’re both fast and tactical fighters, so I think it’s going to be a thrilling and high-level battle. I want to make it a fight that fans will remember,” he said. (ABS-CBN News)