‘People doubted me, but never doubt the living God that I serve’ - Joshua Pacio after TKO win against Brooks

La Trinidad, Benguet - After receiving criticisms from some fans and critics who questioned his potential, Joshua “The Passion” Pacio proved his doubters wrong by dominating his longtime rival, Jarred “The Monkey God” Brooks, during their third clash on Thursday’s ONE 171: Qatar main event.

 “People doubted me, but I tell you, never doubt the living God that I serve. I just want to tell you, God has so blessed me,” said Pacio during his post-match interview.

Before the Cordilleran martial artist took on the One Championship cage on February 20, 2025 to defend his One Strawweight belt against Brooks, sports fans and analysts alike doubted Pacio’s ability to win over Brooks.

Some argued that he is no match for Brooks, especially since he nearly lost to him twice if only their second fight in 2024 did not end in a disqualification against Brooks. Even if Jarred Brooks was disqualified due to an illegal slam against Pacio during their second match, the critics said Pacio was losing the fight that time. 

The sports’ analysts, meantime, likewise mentioned of Brooks’ dominance, especially in grappling, which Pacio lacks. 

Nevertheless, Pacio didn’t back down and silenced his doubters with his striking abilities when he faced Brooks for the third time.

During the third clash, Pacio was nearly choked out by Brooks in the first round, but the 29-year-old Filipino fighter showed resilience and survived the attempt. 

In the second round, it was then that he showed his striking prowess by landing continuous punches that left Brooks unable to defend himself, eventually dropping him to the canvas.

The official decided to stop the fight 38 seconds before the end of the second round. Pacio won via technical knockout and now holds 23 wins with 4 losses MMA record. Brooks, meanwhile, falls to a 21-5 MMA record.

 Pacio’s win against Brooks at ONE 171 cemented his status as the undisputed champion in the sports’ strawweight division. 

Following his victory, Pacio took to his social media and expressed his gratitude to the almighty and to all the people who keep on supporting him throughout his journey. 

“Thank you all for your support and prayers. I can’t reply to all your messages but know that Im so grateful. Love You All!,” he wrote in his Facebook post.