Joshua Pacio takes on Yuya Wakamatsu in hopes of becoming PH's first two-division MMA champ

Reigning ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua Pacio will face fellow champion Yuya "Little Piranha" Wakamatsu at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri, on November 16 at Tokyo's Ariake Arena.

Pacio will move up to the flyweight division, and a victory would make him the first two-division MMA world champion from the Philippines.

"This fight is another chapter in my journey as a martial artist. 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," said the Lions Nation MMA standout.

Wakamatsu, meanwhile, said he will give everything in his title defense.

"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. As a ONE Championship world champion, I'll make sure to get the win in front of the Japanese fans," said Wakamatsu.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News