Joshua Pacio of the Philippines poses for a selfie with a fan. Pictures: Mahmoud Elmazaty / The Peninsula
Doha, Qatar: With the countdown underway for ONE 171: Qatar on Thursday, February 20, 2025, all eyes are on the main event between Filipino fighter Joshua Pacio and the US contender Jared Brooks.
The rematch comes after last year’s dramatic bout, in which Pacio reclaimed the ONE Strawweight MMA World Title where Brooks was disqualified for an illegal slam that left Pacio injured.
In an exclusive interview with The Peninsula on the sidelines of an open workout session held at Palace Vendom on Saturday, Pacio expressed his confidence and determination.
“I am ready and fit for the fight. I don’t look to the past; I look forward,” he stated.
“This is a new stage, a new season for me and Jared,” Pacio added. Emphasising the camaraderie between him and his opponent, Pacio noted that both fighters are focused on the new season.
“I move around by support of fans, Filipino kababayans, and the people in Qatar. I love the people here and call this home away from home, much like fighting at the MOA Arena,” he added.
Pacio concluded with a warm message to The Peninsula readers and Filipino expats in Qatar: “Welcome to all The Peninsula readers and Filipino Kababayans. I feel excited and happy to see you again. I will put on a good show for you guys.”
With last year’s event drawing significant crowds, the return of ONE Championship to Qatar is expected to attract even larger audiences this year.
Elite athletes from around the world and the region are uniting to create an unforgettable spectacle for fans in Doha.
