ONE Flyweight MMA World Champion Yuya Wakamatsu will defend his title against strawweight king Joshua Pacio in a cross-divisional bout at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on Sunday, November 16, at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.
Wakamatsu captured the vacant flyweight championship with a stunning first-round TKO over Adriano Moraes at ONE 172 in March, validating years of sacrifice and perseverance in front of his home crowd at Saitama Super Arena. The victory came in their rematch after Wakamatsu lost to Moraes at ONE X in 2022, demonstrating the resilience that has defined his career.
The 30-year-old Japanese fighter approaches every contest with unwavering intensity, viewing each title defense as a defining moment.
"At the March event, everything just came together. I was at my peak, and I captured the title at that moment. It was truly the best moment of my life," Wakamatsu said. "The biggest change is that I now carry the title of champion. I've also gained confidence. One of my dreams came true, and it feels like I've started a new chapter."
The Tribe Tokyo MMA representative understands the responsibility that comes with being a champion in one of mixed martial arts' most competitive divisions. His approach to defending the belt reflects the all-or-nothing mentality that carried him to gold.
"I want to prove ONE's flyweight [division] is the best in the world. That's why I absolutely cannot lose. For me, losing basically equals death," Wakamatsu said. "I'll fight as if it's my last. I want to inspire fans with courage and hope. I want to put my entire way of life into those 25 minutes."
Pacio represents a dangerous challenge as he seeks to become the Philippines' first two-division ONE MMA World Champion. The reigning ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion has captured his title multiple times, always bouncing back from setbacks to reclaim gold.
Most recently, Pacio defended his strawweight crown with a second-round TKO over Jarred Brooks at ONE 171 in February, settling their rivalry and showcasing his finishing ability.
Wakamatsu acknowledges the threat Pacio brings while maintaining the same mindset that has defined his entire career.
"Sometimes I just think, 'Oh right, I'm the champion.' I forget I'm the champion. But my mindset hasn't really changed. Honestly, it still doesn't feel real to me," Wakamatsu said. "I've always felt pressure, because I fight thinking, 'If I lose, it's over.' So in the end, all I can do is fight with everything I have."
The Japanese fighter expects Pacio to bring the hunger of a fighter chasing history to their encounter.
"I know he'll come at me ready to risk everything, and I want to show the fans a true war," Wakamatsu said.
