Redemption arcs are the most compelling tales in mixed martial arts, and Joshua Pacio knows that all too well.
This is what the Filipino phenom wishes to attain when he runs it back with Jarred Brooks at the highly anticipated ONE 166, emanating live from the Lusail Sports Arena in Qatar this Friday.
Nearly two years after relinquishing the ONE Strawweight MMA World Title to the outspoken American, “The Passion” has had time to analyze and dissect the lapses made during their initial clash.
Though both men engaged in a war of attrition the first time around, Pacio was peculiarly on the defensive over the course of five rounds – shying away from the explosiveness that he’s vaunted for.
“I lost in a fight that I didn’t even demonstrate my absolute best. That wasn’t the real me in there against Jarred Brook, and I had to deal with that disappointment for months,” he told Tiebreaker Times in Filipino.
Acknowledging that it was a letdown of a performance, Pacio understands the importance of addressing those shortcomings to secure victory in his second encounter against “The Monkey God.”
“I’m using that disappointment as motivation. I am aware of my mistakes from the first fight, and I will make up for them in the rematch,” he said.
Responding to the collective call of fans, peers, and pundits for “The real Joshua Pacio to please stand up” – a homage to Eminem’s 2000 classic hit – the Baguio City native embraces the challenge to showcase his true potential.
(C) ONEFC.com
“I need to show my real self, my real self who fights with no hesitation,” he stated.
“I know that I’m one of the best in the world, but I should fight like one. Yes, I’m also fighting one of the best in the world. But I shouldn’t forget that I’m also one of the best in the world.”
The 28-year-old enters this crucial clash with the utmost confidence, thanks to the guidance of his senior teammate Eduard Folayang, as well as coaches Don-Don Colas and Gibran Langbayan at Lions Nation MMA camp.
“As an athlete, you have to feel at home. That’s important for any athlete. When you’re confident and happy in your environment, it will bring out the best in you,” Pacio explained.
“I can honestly say that’s what I’m feeling right now. All of that can be attributed to the support I’m getting here at Lions Nation MMA.”
Beyond the familiar faces, Pacio has sought external expertise to enhance his preparation.
(C) ONEFC.com
Vince Loman, the older brother of Stephen Loman, has played a pivotal role in Pacio’s strength and conditioning.
Meanwhile, jiu-jitsu and sambo savant Godwin Langbayan has generously shared his knowledge on the mats, adding a diverse dimension to Pacio’s training.
He also tapped the services of Peter Miller, a Thailand-based nutritionist who has worked with the likes of Jonathan Haggerty and Superlek Kiatmoo9.
Benefiting from a comprehensive camp, Pacio firmly believes in his chance to bring the gold-plated strap back home.
“It’s now time to put in the work and reclaim the title. Let’s go,” he declared.
