By Jun Ray Navarres
ONE Strawweight World Champion Joshua Pacio received another international recognition in Black Belt Magazine “Ten of the Best MMA Fighters in the World Right Now” alongside fellow ONE promotion champions.
Black Belt dubbed Pacio, who has been dominating his division creating highlights every time he steps inside the Circle as “one of the most exciting athletes in the sport today”.
The publication also recognized Pacio’s contribution in inspiring the younger Filipino generation.
“The Passion” knocked out Yosuke Saruta ONE: Roots of Honor early in April 2019 reign in his division, earning the golden plated strap. Pacio later defended his belt twice before COVID-19 shook the world.
Pacio submitted Filipino compatriot Rene “The Challenger” Catalan at ONE: Masters of Fate to successfully defend his title for the first time, followed by a split decision win against Alex Silva in front of Filipino audience earlier this year.
The 24-year old star is far from his prime and he only knows one way – forward.
The Team Lakay stalwart was also featured in ESPN Top 25 MMA Fighters under the age of 25 earlier last month.
Alongside Pacio, siblings and world champion of their respective divisions “Unstoppable” Angela Lee (women atomweight) and Christian “The Warrior” Lee (lightweight) made it to the cut.
ONE Flyweight World Champion Adriano Moraes and flyweight no. 1 contender and Flyweight Grand Prix Champion Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson completed the fighters under the Singapore-based promotion to make it to the rankings.
Black Belt Magazine is a US-based publication which is considered as one of the oldest magazine dedicated to covering martial arts and combat sports.
Follow the writer on Twitter: @burnsports
