Joshua Pacio Looking Forward to Showcasing a “Better Version” of Himself, Following an Eventful 2023

Joshua Pacio had a few significant changes in his life last year, and he’s looking forward to showcasing a better version of himself in 2024.

“The Passion” is set to challenge Jarred Brooks for the ONE Strawweight MMA World Championship he once held at ONE 166: Qatar on Friday, March 1, inside the Lusail Sports Arena. 

Joshua Pacio is ready to take on Jarred Brooks next

Ahead of his rematch with “The Monkey God,” the Filipino fighter reflected on the last 12 months in an interview with ONE Championship.

“For me 2023, it’s like God closing one door and opening another door for me. It’s the best feeling for me. This open door led to a better way for me, a better plan of God for me. We win against a tough opponent in Mansur Malachiev on my return.”

After losing the strawweight MMA strap to Brooks at ONE 164 in December 2022, Pacio reset and sought training elsewhere. Earlier this year, he joined an exodus of fighters leaving his former stable, Team Lakay, and he and some of his brothers founded Lions Nation MMA.

The 27-year-old showcased improvements in his comeback fight at ONE Fight Night 15 this past October and handed rising contender Mansur Malachiev his first professional MMA loss saw how it went –

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I went to the United States, I learned a lot of things, I met different people, and I learned a lot from that trip,” Pacio said.  

“I came back here, joined Lions Nation MMA, and started my camp there. And it resulted in a With the win, Pacio cemented his position atop the strawweight MMA divisional rankings and earned a much-deserved rematch against Brooks. 

“The Passion” is high on confidence and will look to win again

Getting back on the winning track against Malachiev, who has a similar specialty as the American titleholder, will undoubtedly help boost his confidence ahead of their second meeting on March 1.

The Filipino also believes that his new team will be able to equip him with the necessary tools to fill the gaps of his initial bout with “The Monkey God.” 

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“I know that I’m going to be more focused this time around. I have this team to collaborate and brainstorm with, that I can truly say and suggest certain routines with what I need for this next fight,” Pacio said.   

“I’m excited for this rematch. You better look out for a better version of Joshua Pacio.”