ONE 171: 'Was Looking To Dominate' – Joshua Pacio Proves Critics Wrong With Sensational Victory Over Jarred Brooks

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The third time's a charm. That's exactly what transpired for Joshua Pacio last Thursday in the main event of ONE 171: Qatar. There, fans inside Lusail Sports Arena witnessed the crowning of the new undisputed ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion.

Interim king Jarred Brooks dominated the first round, and it looked as if the fighting Gods and odds were once again in his favour. However, in the second round, Pacio came out like a man possessed.

"The Passion" took him down and took control of the fight. Then, he rained down punches in bunches to score a TKO victory. In doing so, Pacio said he silenced his critics and doubters with his performance. The Filipino also stated that he aimed to dominate the fight.

"[The win was] just a release for me because there were a lot of people talking behind me, doubting me. 'You can't do it. You can't do it.' At the end of the day, I was just very focused on winning and training," Pacio said.

"I've been through a lot because of the injuries, but, you know, it's just a relief. There's so much joy and happiness. The energy was like in Manila, honestly. I was ready to go a full five rounds. I was not looking for a finish. I was looking to dominate."

The fight marked the third chapter of their high-profile rivalry. In the first bout, Brooks won fair and square by decision to capture the World Title. However, an illegal slam on Pacio saw Brooks lose his belt in the second battle.

For their third encounter, the 29-year-old Filipino superstar believed that his opponent was well prepared for the fight. Their rivalry saw some heated and intense moments over the years, but the now-undisputed World Champion respects Brooks and says he's a good guy.

"I know Jared Brooks is always prepared. I know that he never underestimated me. I know the guy. He worked so hard. He trained so hard for himself and for his family," Pacio said.

"I know the calibre of athlete he is. He's a very high-level wrestler, and I respect him so much. When you watch him, he's that guy. He's that bad guy in the movie, but honestly, he's a good guy."