Joshua Pacio Reclaims ONE Strawweight MMA World Title

Photo Courtesy || Eduard Folayang

Cordillera - Igorot Mixed Martial Artist Joshua "The Passion" Pacio reclaims the ONE Strawweight MMA World Title by disqualification brought by an illegal spike by American fighter Jarred Brook during the ONE166: Qatar on March 1, 2024. 

Pacio was immediately brought to the hospital for check-up, and as per report he was safe from possible injury based on the result of his CT scan.

"Joshua “The Passion” Pacio is clear in his ct scan results according to the doctor who read the results, there is no fracture, brain damage and neck injuries", Eduard Folayang wrote in a post. 

The American trash-talker Jarred Brooks unintentionally rendered an illegal spike to Pacio's head and striking it afterwards.

Under the Global Mixed Martial Arts Rule Set, slams to the head, neck, or spine are prohibited. Consequently, Brooks was disqualified in the first round at the 56-second mark, leading to Pacio being awarded the ONE strawweight MMA world title.

Meanwhile, Brooks sent a heartfelt message to Pacio, saying, "@joshuapacio, I wish nothing but the best for you, brother. I hope you're okay. I am sorry for letting down my family and the organization. I did not intend to do anything wrong. #andnew Congratulations!"

Read More

Cordilleran MMA legend Eduard Folayang set for ONE return against Amir Khan

Eduard Folayang vs Amir Khan II

Cordillera - Eduard "Landslide" Folayang, the former holder of the ONE lightweight world title twice, is gearing up for a long-awaited comeback to the ONE Championship Circle next month. 

His return is set to be a compelling showdown as he faces off once again against Amir Khan at the ONE Fight Night 14 event: Stamp vs. Ham. This event is scheduled to unfold on September 30 within the confines of the Singapore Indoor Stadium.

Their history traces back to 2018 when "Landslide" triumphed over the Singaporean contender, Amir Khan, in a dominant five-round match, securing his second ONE lightweight world championship in his storied career.

Eager anticipation is evident in Folayang's words, "I am filled with immense excitement as I anticipate the rematch with Amir Khan on September 30th." 

"This fight holds deeper significance than just a contest within the Circle. It symbolizes redemption, a chance to rewrite my narrative, and an opportunity to embark on an exhilarating new chapter in my journey.", he added.

Much transformation has taken place since Folayang's initial bout with Khan. Notably, he will now sport the banner of Lions Nation MMA, the fight team he established in June. His corner boasts the expertise of two accomplished coaches: Gibran Langbayan, a multi-medaled Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, and Don-Don Colas, a seasoned striking coach.

Folayang's path to this juncture has been marked by challenges, yet he asserts, "I've harnessed strength from adversity, and I'm poised to display the fruits of my labor. I am primed to seize this moment and validate that setbacks are merely setups for resounding comebacks."

The veteran fighter's previous match took place in December 2022, resulting in a loss to Brazil's Edson Marques at the Mall of Asia Arena. Notably, he departed from Team Lakay in March 2023.

The Folayang-Khan clash is part of a formidable fight card, with the spotlight on the bout between two-sport World Champion Stamp Fairtex and the dynamic Ham Seo Hee, contending for the ONE Interim Atomweight World Championship.

Read More