Expect the ‘best version’ of Joshua Pacio in his first ONE title defense

Filipino champion Joshua Pacio isn’t taking Japanese challenger Yosuke Saruta for granted when they meet in the cage for the ONE strawweight belt in ONE: Eternal Glory on Saturday.

And knowing the kind of challenge that awaits, Pacio vowed he’s going to be in full form for his first title defense.

“I feel I am at my best right now. After a tremendous training camp, I’m ready to step up to the plate and defend my title,” Pacio said during the fighters’ open workout and face off. “This world title means everything to me. It represents all the hard work that me and my team have put in. Now it’s time to reap the fruits of our labor.”

Yosuke is a very dangerous opponent and I am not taking him lightly. I have prepared for the toughest challenge of my career, and I plan to showcase the best version of Joshua Pacio in the fight.”

Saruta believes he is fully equipped to dethrone Pacio and become the division’s new king in just his second fight in the promotion.

When I made my debut a few months ago, I wanted to make a statement. I wanted to prove to the world that I am ready for a title shot immediately. That is what I have done and now we are here,” said Saruta, who beat former champion Alex Silva by unanimous decision just last month.

“I am confident that at the end of the night, I will leave the arena with my hands raised in victory and with the World Title around my waist. Joshua Pacio is a great champion, but I feel I have the tools necessary to defeat him. It’s going to be an interesting matchup. I vow to give my best performance.”