Joshua Pacio eyes history, unfazed by enemy territory at ONE 173

Joshua Pacio remains unfazed as he steps into enemy territory in pursuit of history at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on November 16 at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.

The Filipino strawweight king is set to challenge ONE Flyweight MMA World Champion Yuya Wakamatsu, aiming to become the first-ever Filipino double champion in the prestigious Asia-based promotion.

“It’s my first time competing here, but you know, I’m more focused on Yuya Wakamatsu,” said the 29-year-old Baguio City native during the pre-fight press conference. “Throughout my career, I’ve fought in hostile enemy (territory), so it’s not new to me.”

The co-main event clash will mark Pacio’s debut in the flyweight division. Despite the odds, the reigning Strawweight MMA World Champion believes he’ll leave Tokyo wearing a second crown.

“Pressure is not new to me. It’s a very, very big challenge, but what can I say? Watch me on November 16 become a two-division champion,” he declared.

Pacio enters the bout coming off a massive statement win at ONE 171: Qatar earlier this year, where he knocked out longtime rival Jarred Brooks in the main event to retain his 115-pound title.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News