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Bokang Masunyane Ready To Fight Through Everyone For Title Shot Against Joshua Pacio

By MyKhel Staff

South African contender Bokang Masunyane talks about earning a potential title shot against reigning ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua Pacio when he faces Japanese fighter Ryohei Kurosawa in a crucial strawweight MMA clash at ONE Fight Night 39 on 24 January.

The "Little Giant" brings a 10-3 career MMA record and four promotional victories into this must-win bout. Masunyane has previously defeated three Japanese stars in ONE Championship, giving him confidence heading into this matchup.

Bokang Masunyane

Masunyane expressed his eagerness to face Pacio as soon as possible, revealing frustration over not receiving a title shot yet. The South African believes defeating Kurosawa will open title conversations and position him for the opportunity he desperately seeks.

"Honestly, ideally, I would like to fight Joshua Pacio even tomorrow if I had to. I've been unlucky not to get that shot, but now I'm building myself right back up to get that title shot. I'm fighting a very good fighter next, so that opens up the conversation," Masunyane said.

"Also, as a fighter, I'd like to fight as much as I can. Whoever wants to fight me on my way to the title. They are standing in my way, and my goal is to get that title shot, so I'm going through everyone in this division."

The CIT MMA star's willingness to fight anyone showcases his hunger and confidence. Masunyane views every opponent as an obstacle between himself and title gold, approaching each bout with the mentality of clearing his path to Pacio.

Despite his ambitions, Masunyane holds genuine respect for Pacio as both a fighter and person. The 31-year-old contender admires the Filipino champion's personality, heart, and status as a fan favorite in the division.

"I like Pacio. He's got a very good personality, he's got a good heart, he's a fan's favorite in the division. I feel like with the mutual respect that Joshua gives back when he fights, he gives everything, and I feel like it's the same with me," Masunyane said.

Story first published: Friday, January 9, 2026, 13:28 [IST]
Other articles published on Jan 9, 2026
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