Joshua Pacio to defend One Strawweight belt against Brooks in their trilogy clash

La Trinidad, Benguet - Joshua “The Passion” Pacio is set to face for the third time his long-time rival, whom he described to be his toughest opponent, Jarred “The Monkey God” Brooks, at ONE 171: Qatar's main event this coming Thursday, February 20, 2025. 

Joshua Pacio, who holds the One Straw weight belt, became the champion in the said division in 2018 and is determined to retain his title against Brooks, whom he first met in the cage in 2022. 

Pacio and Brooks' first fight took place in December 2022, where Brooks claimed the ONE Strawweight MMA World Title from the Cordilleran fighter via a unanimous decision. 

The two clashed again for the second time in 2024, but Brooks had to surrender the title to Pacio following his illegal slam against him during their rematch. Pacio regained the title by way of disqualification.

On February 20, the brave fighters will battle it out again for the third time. With their upcoming trilogy fight, Can Pacio's striking abilities be able safeguard his championship? Or will Brooks' wrestling dominance take back the crown? 

In a video shared by his team (Lions Nation MMA) on its Facebook page, Pacio is inviting everyone to watch the fight and show support to him and to his fellow Filipino athletes as well. 

“Watch us as we proudly represent our flag…It will be a good one, I promise you. Let us show to the world the heart of a true Filipino,” said Pacio.