Joshua Pacio has been here before—but not quite like this.
The ONE strawweight champion returns to Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok on Friday to defend his title against Mansur Malachiev in a rematch of a fight he already won, nearly two years after handing the Russian the first loss of his professional career with a unanimous decision at ONE Fight Night 15. The result is on the record. The story, Pacio believes, is still being written.
“I believe I’ve grown a lot since our first fight,” the Lions Nation MMA standout said. “Not just technically, but also mentally and spiritually. Malachiev is a very dangerous opponent, especially with his grappling, and I respect that. But I’ve worked hard to improve in all areas—my defense, my striking, my composure. I wouldn’t say I’m better in every single aspect, but I know I’m more complete and more prepared now. I’m excited to show that in this rematch.”
What Happened in Pacio vs. Malachiev 1?
In their first encounter, Joshua Pacio neutralized Malachiev’s dangerous grappling through disciplined striking and improved defensive wrestling, controlling all three rounds to earn the decision. It was a performance built on game plan execution rather than fireworks—and it worked. But Malachiev has not been sitting still since that defeat.
The Russian has won three straight bouts since their first meeting, including a submission victory over former strawweight champion Jarred Brooks—a result that served as the most emphatic possible argument for a second shot at the title. Pacio acknowledges what that run represents.
“I think one of my biggest advantages is my experience at this level and my ability to adapt,” he said. “I’ve been in many tough fights and different situations, and I’ve learned how to stay calm and make the right adjustments. I also believe in my striking and my ability to control the pace of the fight. But overall, it’s about being ready everywhere because I know he’s dangerous in his own way.”
Joshua Pacio to Lean on Experience, Evolution as a Fighter
The experience advantage is real. Joshua Pacio has navigated the pressure of championship fights at the highest level of Asian MMA repeatedly—and the composure that comes with that track record is not something Malachiev can replicate through a three-fight winning streak alone. But Pacio is careful not to let prior success breed complacency.
“Every fight is an opportunity to show growth and represent my team and my country,” he said. “So it’s not just about dominance—it’s about performance, discipline, and showing the best version of myself.”
A successful defense on Friday would add another layer to a career that has been built steadily and with clear purpose. Pacio knows what it means—but keeps the focus where it belongs.
“This fight is very important. Every title defense adds to your legacy, especially against a tough opponent like Malachiev. For me, it’s not just about being remembered as a champion, but about inspiring others and showing who really brought me to where I am now—and that is my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
The rematch is Friday. Joshua Pacio says he is ready. The growth, he promises, will be on display.
