Philippines’ Joshua Pacio is set to make his flyweight debut in a highly anticipated matchup against Japan’s Yuya Wakamatsu at ONE Championship 173. Known for his championship pedigree in the strawweight division, Pacio enters the new weight class confident and physically stronger, aiming to make an immediate impact. The upcoming bout marks a significant step in his career as he looks to prove himself against a formidable opponent on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
Joshua Pacio Emphasizes Physical Strength Gains Ahead of Flyweight Debut at ONE 173
Joshua Pacio has revealed that his preparation for the upcoming flyweight debut at ONE 173 has been focused heavily on increasing his physical strength. Known for his dynamic striking and grappling in the strawweight division, Pacio believes the added power will be a critical factor when facing tough opponents like Yuya Wakamatsu. “I’ve gotten physically stronger,” Pacio stated confidently, emphasizing how rigorous conditioning and strength training have been integrated into his camp to adapt to the challenges of the flyweight class.
His training regime includes:
- Enhanced weightlifting sessions targeting overall muscle mass
- Explosive power drills to improve striking impact
- Cardiovascular conditioning tailored for endurance at a higher weight
This focused approach aims to balance strength gains without compromising agility or speed, which are critical in his fight style. Below is a comparison of Pacio’s physical metrics from strawweight to flyweight training cycles:
| Metric | Strawweight Camp | Flyweight Camp |
|---|---|---|
| Bench Press Max | 145 lbs | 185 lbs |
| Squat Max | 200 lbs | 265 lbs |
| Body Weight | 125 lbs | 135 lbs |
Strategic Adaptations and Training Recommendations for Pacio Facing Yuya Wakamatsu in Key Flyweight Clash
Transitioning to the flyweight division, Joshua Pacio has recalibrated his training regimen to enhance agility without compromising his renowned power. Key adaptations include focused strength conditioning tailored to optimize explosiveness in a lighter weight class. Emphasis on endurance drills and speed work ensures Pacio can maintain a relentless pace against Yuya Wakamatsu’s quick striking and dynamic grappling. His camp employed detailed video analysis sessions, identifying Wakamatsu’s signature patterns to develop counter-strategies aimed at disrupting his rhythm early in the bout.
Pacio’s preparation highlights several tactical areas:
- Maintain physical strength while increasing mobility to match flyweight speed
- Enhance defensive grappling to counter Wakamatsu’s submission attempts
- Exploit clinch exchanges leveraging Pacio’s Muay Thai background for scoring strikes
- Implement pacing strategies to avoid energy depletion against a high-tempo opponent
The strategy is also reflected in their revised sparring protocols, focusing on replicating Wakamatsu’s aggressive style to sharpen Pacio’s reaction times and adaptability inside the cage.
| Training Focus | Expected Benefit | Implementation Method |
|---|---|---|
| Strength & Conditioning | Power retention at flyweight | Weighted plyometrics & resistance training |
| Speed & Agility | Quick counters and footwork | High-intensity interval sprints |
| Grappling Defense | Neutralize submissions | Targeted BJJ drills with live resistance |
| Clinch Work | Effective striking control | Muay Thai clinch sparring sessions |
Key Takeaways
As Joshua Pacio prepares to make his flyweight debut against Yuya Wakamatsu at ONE 173, the reigning strawweight champion’s confidence in his physical growth and adaptability sets the stage for a compelling matchup. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Pacio’s increased strength and refined skills translate against a new set of opponents in a different weight class. With both fighters hungry for victory, ONE 173 promises to deliver an exciting contest that could reshape the division’s landscape.
