A New Chapter for Joshua Pacio
Joshua “The Passion” Pacio, the reigning ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion, is making a bold move by aiming for his second world title in the flyweight division. The Filipino sensation has been adapting well to the higher weight class and is preparing for a significant challenge.
Pacio will face Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu, the newly crowned ONE Flyweight MMA World Champion, in a high-stakes bout at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri. This event is set to take place live on Sunday, November 16 from Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.
As one of the most decorated fighters in ONE Championship history, Pacio has built an impressive legacy as the undisputed 125-pound king. His recent victory over American rival Jarred “The Monkey God” Brooks via second-round TKO at ONE 171: Qatar solidified his status as a dominant force in the strawweight division.
However, the opportunity to become the Philippines’ first-ever two-division MMA World Champion was too enticing to pass up. Pacio explained:
“My main goal was to defend my strawweight title, but I’ll always grab opportunities that ONE Championship gives me. They gave me a chance to fight for the flyweight belt, so here we are.”
Embracing the Challenge
Pacio recognizes that moving up to flyweight requires more than just physical adjustments. He has been focusing on proper nutrition rather than restrictive diets, which has allowed him to perform at a new level.
“I’m actually quite thrilled,” Pacio said. “I don’t have to cut weight that much. [Peter Miller] from Condition Nutrition is still guiding me. At strawweight, I had to restrict my calories. Now, I’m quite surprised by the amount I’m able to eat.”
His training has remained intense, but he’s now consuming more healthy foods and feeling more relaxed during his camp. This shift has led to improved energy levels and faster recovery times.
Physical Transformation and Mental Readiness
Pacio has undergone a transformation that goes beyond just aesthetics. He feels stronger, more robust, and physically imposing. More importantly, his body recovers faster from grueling training sessions.
“I really feel extra powerful in this weight class,” he said. “I feel it in training, too, particularly with my recovery. During my training camps at strawweight, usually fatigue sets in near the end of the week. But right now, I have the same energy levels I had from the start.”
This newfound strength comes from a meticulous approach to training. Pacio and his team have focused on building raw power while maintaining his signature speed and agility.
Preparing for a Tough Opponent
Wakamatsu is known for his relentless pressure and finishing ability. Pacio acknowledges the challenge ahead but remains confident in his preparation.
“We really focused on building raw power for this move,” Pacio said. “Before I accepted the fight, I already understood that it’s an entirely different weight class in terms of physicality. Not just to weather their strength, but actually match it.”
Pacio believes his added muscle hasn’t hindered his speed. In fact, he feels more dangerous than ever.
“The main thing, of course, is to make sure I don’t lose speed,” he concluded. “It’s one of my best attributes, so I made sure it’s still there when I move up a weight class.”
