Folayang high on Pacio's ONE flyweight title hopes

MANILA, Philippines — Eduard Folayang believes Lions Nation MMA teammate Joshua Pacio has what it takes to become a two-division MMA world champion.

Pacio, the reigning ONE strawweight MMA world champion, will be shooting for the flyweight championship against Yuya Wakamatsu at ONE 173: Superbon vs Noiri on November 16th in Tokyo, Japan.

If he grabs the win against the Japanese, he will become the Philippines’ first two-division MMA world champion.

Folayang, in a statement, said that he sees qualities in his teammate that remind him of his own championship runs.

"Joshua has always been a student of the game. He's disciplined, humble, and willing to push himself beyond his limits. His fight IQ is very high, and he knows how to adapt inside the circle,” he said.

“But more than that, his heart is unmatched. He fights not just for himself, but for the people who believe in him, for the Philippines, and ultimately for the glory of God. That's what makes him dangerous and capable of achieving something this big,” he added.

“The Landslide” also underscored how inspiring Pacio’s position is, especially for Philippine fighters.

“We've walked this journey together for many years, and I know how much hard work and sacrifice he's put in. To have the chance to make history for the Philippines is something special, and I'm confident he will make our country proud," he stressed.

Pacio won the strawweight gold against rival Jarred Brooks last year via disqualification. He, then, defended his title earlier this year after knocking Brooks out.

He is currently riding a three-match win streak.

While Pacio will aim to string together four straight victories, it will not be easy against the Japanese Wakamatsu, who also won his previous four bouts.

"If Joshua wins this fight, it will be a proud moment for all Filipinos. It will show the world that we have the talent, heart, and determination to be among the best in the sport,” Folayang said.

“For the next generation of fighters, it will serve as a reminder that with hard work, discipline, and faith in God, dreams that once seemed impossible can be achieved.”