Joshua Pacio has voiced his belief that Filipino compatriot Jeremy Miado has a solid chance against Japan’s Hiroba Minowa.
Miado and Minowa are slated to collide in a strawweight MMA bout at ONE Fight Night 23, broadcasting live from the legendary Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand on Saturday, July 6.
Both men are entering the three-round duel amidst challenging times, navigating a three-fight losing skid each.
Pacio, the reigning ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion, feels that this shared struggle sets the stage for a clash where neither will leave any stone unturned in their quest for redemption inside the ring.
“Both fighters face significant challenges going into this bout, driven by their hunger for victory. Anticipate a showdown where they put everything on the line,” he said.
“The Passion” also highlighted stylistic depth that will likely define the showdown this weekend.
For Minowa, a grappler known for his formidable ground game, success has often been synonymous with his ability to gain the upper hand on the canvas.
Conversely, Miado’s prowess lies in his concussive striking, a skill set that has earned him respect and admiration
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“Hiroba Minowa is a force on the ground, making him a daunting opponent to contend with once he establishes his grappling game. However, Jeremy Miado possesses a powerful advantage of his own,” Pacio explained.
“He packs serious punch with his fists and is skilled in striking techniques.”
As someone who has navigated the challenges posed by grappling specialists himself, Pacio understands the tactical complexities Miado will face.
“Hiroba Minowa seems unlikely to engage in a striking battle with Jeremy Miado and will likely prioritize shooting for takedowns throughout the fight. I know Miado is aware of this, and without him telling me, he’s preparing hard to sharpen his takedown defense,” the Lions Nation MMA co-founder stated.
However, he wants to warn Minowa if the Japanese tries to step into Miado’s wheelhouse.
Photo from ONEFC.com
“Underestimating Jeremy Miado would be a mistake you can’t afford to make when facing him. With one strike, he can send you to sleep,” Pacio pointed out.
“Miado manages to fend off Minowa’s takedowns and turns the fight into a striking battle, it could spell trouble for Minowa.”
Reflecting on his own experiences, Pacio underscores the importance of strategy and execution.
“Of course, I’m rooting for Jeremy Miado. But objectively speaking, the fighter who strategically deploys their best weapons first is likely to win the match,” he ended.
