ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua Pacio is still recuperating from his injury, but he is keeping an eye on his potential next challenger on U.S. primetime this weekend. In the main event of ONE Fight Night 24 this Friday, August 2, former world titleholder Jarred “The Monkey God” Brooks will face Cuban sensation Gustavo “El Gladiador” Balart for the division’s interim strap inside the legendary Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand. So what are Pacio’s thoughts on both his potential opponents?

Joshua Pacio’s determination for a rematch with Jarred Brooks

After Balart failed his hydration on the official weigh-ins, only Brooks is eligible for the gold. The winner of the bout will be in line for a World Title unification bout against “The Passion” once he is ready to compete again.

In an interview with ONE, Pacio offered his thoughts on who he wants to face between the two fierce competitors. “I can see where this is heading, so I’ll be straightforward,” he said. “I have unfinished business with Jarred Brooks, and I intend to settle it in the future. If Gustavo Balart rises to the occasion, he’s more than welcome.”

Pacio was riding a four-fight win streak that included three successful World Title defenses before running into the streaking Brooks at ONE 164 back in December 2022. After dealing with Russian star Mansur Malachiev’s first defeat at ONE Fight Night 15 last October, the Filipino warrior earned the right to run it back against “The Monkey God” at ONE 166 this past March.

Pacio’s quest for redemption

After all the hype surrounding their matchup, it ended in an anti-climactic disqualification caused by an illegal slam from Brooks. While Pacio did win back the belt, he rightfully feels there is unfinished business between him and the American.

On the flip side, Balart has proven that he is a force to be reckoned with in the division after collecting four straight wins. In his last three wins, he has taken out former world titleholders Alex Silva and Yosuke Saruta before defeating #4-ranked Hiroba Minowa at ONE 165 this past January.

Adding Brooks to his list of conquests will certainly prove that he is worthy of an opportunity to become the undisputed king of the division. No matter the outcome of ONE Fight Night 24’s main event, it appears Pacio will be ready to show why he is considered one of the greatest strawweight MMA fighters in the world’s largest martial arts organization.