Josh “The Passion” Pacio Gets a Backup Buddy for His Title Fight
What a punch‑line! The Filipino star Joshua Pacio is stepping into the biggest fight of his career, and he’s got a side‑kick who’s more than just a friend.
Spotlight on the Fight
- The upcoming title bout is scheduled for September 22 at ONE: Conquest of Heroes in Jakarta.
- “The Passion” will face reigning champ Yoshitaka “Nobita” Naito for the ONE Strawweight World Title.
- Flying high, Danny Kingad, Pacio’s teammate and mortal‑mortuary buddy, will fight Pancrase champion Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu on the same card.
Training Tales
The pair have been burning the midnight oil at Team Lakay gym:
- “Danny’s a total rockstar,” Pacio says. “I feel lucky to have my brother‑in‑arms pushing me harder than any spotlight can.
- He’s not just a beast—he’s brainy,{” “}and knows how to switch styles like a pro DJ. Training with him? “Totally changed my game.”
First‑time Frenzy
They’re gearing up to showcase their chemistry on the same stage. Pacio’s excitement is palpable:
- “We’ve talked about teaming up for ages, and now it’s happening. The next day is a win‑win craze for us.
- He’s diving into a tough opponent too, so I’ll be cheering him hard. If both of us win, it’s the dream come true I’ve been chasing.”
From Wushu to Warlords
Salted roots trace back to the University of the Cordilleras where both joined the wushu squad under Team Lakay’s head honcho, Mark Sangiao. Their bond remains iron‑clad:
- Beyond the mats, they’re biking, dining, and just hanging out. They even admit that math is the only weak spot they can’t help each other with.
- “We have that lifelong brother‑like trust that fuels our training.”
Double‑Trouble? They’re Ready!
Both are hyped about double victory in Jakarta:
- “If Danny gets a sweet finish before I storm the ring, that’s pure adrenaline boost.
- “I’m standing on the brink of the biggest fight EVER, and that’s what keeps me in the zone.”
