Joshua Pacio eager to settle ‘unfinished business’ with Jarred Brooks

For Joshua Pacio, the desire to finish his beef with Jarred Brooks burns deeply.

Their paths crossed once more at ONE 166: Qatar earlier this month, reigniting a rivalry that has captivated fans worldwide. However, what transpired left both fighters and spectators with the bitter taste of controversy.

The rematch was supposed to provide closure, a definitive answer to their previous encounter in December 2022. Yet, fate had other plans.

There, “The Monkey God” executed an illegal slam, causing Pacio to hit the canvas headfirst.

Under ONE Championship’s Global MMA Rule Set, such a maneuver is strictly prohibited. It left Brooks with no choice but to relinquish the belt in favor of the Filipino star.

Despite the contentious nature of their recent matchup, the two rivals have since spoken and resolved their differences.

Looking ahead, they are eager to step onto the stage for a rubber match.

“The Passion,” in particular, hopes for this third showdown to take place sooner rather than later.

“It’s really just Jarred. For me, it’s unfinished business. I want the trilogy to be this year. I’m hoping it would be in the Philippines,” Pacio told The MMA Superfan in an interview.

But before he can make any plans, Pacio is prioritizing his health. This week, he will undergo a second opinion and another MRI to assess his physical condition.

Reflecting on the events that transpired at Lusail Sports Arena, Pacio acknowledges the bittersweet nature of his victory.

“My training was pure quality, my training camp was pure quality, my nutrition was pure quality, everything was. We all didn’t want what happened. Of course, I was just so upset with what happened,” he said.

Pacio also conveyed empathy for Brooks’ predicament.

“Not everyone sees the struggle. Everyone just sees that I won due to disqualification. Only athletes know the struggles of athletes. I know it was also hard for Jarred Brooks to lose via DQ. That really hurts,” he said.

Joshua Pacio: ‘Rules are rules’

Though how he regained his crown may not align with his preference, Joshua Pacio embraces his role as the division’s king.

“For me, yes of course. Rules are rules. And if the rules that were made before that belts won’t change hands, then those are the rules,” he said.

“But if these are the rules that have been placed before, then we’ll have to follow it.”