Reigning ONE Flyweight MMA World Champion Yuya Wakamatsu will defend his crown against current strawweight king Joshua Pacio in a champion versus champion showdown at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on Saturday, November 16, at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.
The 30-year-old Japanese titleholder reflected on the career-defining moment when he captured the vacant flyweight belt by knocking out multiple-time champion Adriano Moraes in the first round at ONE 172 in March 2025. Wakamatsu described it as the best moment of his life, and now, he looks to make another lasting memory in just a few weeks.
Title Victory Represents Life-Changing Moment For Japanese Champ Wakamatsu
Wakamatsu expressed profound gratitude for the circumstances that aligned perfectly during his title-winning performance against the legendary Moraes. The Japanese striker believes he reached his absolute peak at the ideal moment, allowing him to fulfill a lifelong dream and embark on a new adventure in his MMA career.
“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. The biggest change is that I now carry the title of champion. One of my dreams came true, and it feels like I’ve started a new chapter,” Wakamatsu said.
The knockout victory over Moraes marked the fourth consecutive win for Wakamatsu, who owns a 19-6 record. Since his defeat to MMA icon Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson in 2019, he has demonstrated the growth and perseverance required to reach the sport’s pinnacle.
Wakamatsu Fights For Divisional Supremacy Against Pacio
Wakamatsu understands the significance of defending his belt against a champion from another weight class, viewing the bout as an opportunity to establish ONE Championship’s flyweight division as the world’s best. The Japanese titleholder’s mentality reflects his willingness to leave everything in the Circle.
“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. I’ll fight as if it’s my last. I want to put my entire way of life into those 25 minutes,” Wakamatsu said.
The extreme mindset demonstrates the champion’s understanding of what’s at stake when facing a decorated opponent like Pacio, who brings a 23-4 record into this flyweight challenge.
Japanese Star Wakamatsu Promises Explosive War In Tokyo
Wakamatsu acknowledged the mental pressure that accompanies competition at the championship level, all while expressing confidence in his preparation and willingness to engage in an all-out war. “Little Piranha,” a nickname that pays homage to his coach Ryo “Piranha” Chonan, expects both himself and Pacio to deliver a memorable performance for fans in his home country.
“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. I know he’ll come at me ready to risk everything, and I want to show the fans a true war,” Wakamatsu stated about his approach to the title defense.
The 29-year-old Filipino moves up from strawweight to challenge for flyweight gold, seeking to become a two-division champion and proving he can hang against larger opponents. Pacio’s experience in high-stakes title fights and proven finishing ability make him a dangerous challenger for Wakamatsu’s throne.
