Pacio to test new ‘game plan’ vs Naito
JAKARTA, Indonesia: Mixed martial arts fighter Joshua “The Passion” Pacio is the epitome of an Igorot warrior’s tenacity to cope with and conquer adversities and challenges.
Pasio will face reigning champion Yoshitaka “Nobita” Naito, for the second time today at the Jakarta Convention Center in the main event of ONE: Conquest of Heroes.
- pared two years and upgraded my skills on all fronts,” said the 22-year old Baguio City-native, who lost to Naito in October 2016 via third round rear-naked choke in Myanmar.
Pacio is heeding his mentor Mark Sangiao’s advice on how to outplay Naito.
“He told me ‘Never give your back’ either in mixed martial arts or jiu-jitsu because once Naito gets my back, it would be hard for me to return,” explained Pacio.
Sangiao prepped Pacio by improving pupil’s wrestling and ground offense.
“If we get the chance to take him down, I will do that. If there is a chance to become aggressive on the mat then we will do that.”
Pacio, who holds a record of 12 wins and two losses, is eager to bring the belt to Baguio City to inspire the survivors of Typhoon Ompong.
(fellowmen) who, despite of what happened to my hometown, are still working to rise and recover,”
Naito recognizes the threat posed by Pacio.
“I can’t be complacent against him. He is tough as nails. I am determined to keep my belt. I am con- fident of my skills, in my martial arts, my grappling, and my conditioning.”
- fended the strawweight world title against former champions Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke and Alex Silva. The 34-year old Naito is regarded as
to have come out of Japan.
“I have a lot of respect for Joshua Pacio, he is a very talented kid and a great martial artist. I have no doubt that one day, he will be champion. But that day hasn’t arrived yet. Right now, it’s my time,” said Naito.
will see action tonight namely Danny “The King” Kingad and Jomary Torres. former ONE world title challenger Kingad will battle top Japanese prospect Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu while Torres of Catalan Fighting System takes on Priscilla Hertati Lumban Gaol in a three-round atomweight clash.