All news tagged MixedMartialArts

Undefeated Filipino lightweight MMA fighter Ian Paul “Choco” Lora (3-0) will make his international debut at BRAVE CF 98 in Zhengzhou, China, on September 19. 

The 20-year-old from Daraga, Albay, faces India’s Owais Yaqoob (3-1) in a three-round undercard bout.

Lora, representing Lion’s Den MMA Academy, has impressed on the local MMA scene with one knockout and one submission win. 

He drew attention with a nine-second KO in May and now aims to make an impact on the global stage. Yaqoob enters with a three-fight win streak, also making his BRAVE CF debut.

Lora is the second Filipino signed to BRAVE CF this year, following Drex Zamboanga. 

The event is headlined by a featherweight interim title bout between Ukraine’s Omar Solomanov and Kazakhstan’s Rauan Bekbolat.

Filipina MMA champion Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga has withdrawn from her scheduled ONE Women’s Atomweight World Championship defense at ONE 173 on November 16 due to “medical reasons.”

Zamboanga was set to defend her title against Japan’s Ayaka Miura at Ariake Arena in Tokyo. 

"With a heavy heart, I need to share some difficult news… I was truly excited to defend my belt at ONE 173 against Ayaka. I know how strong and talented she is, and I was looking forward to testing myself against such a worthy challenger. This was a fight I have been preparing for and one I deeply wanted to give to the fans," she said.

Her withdrawal leaves former strawweight champion Joshua “The Passion” Pacio as the sole Filipino representative on the card.

Zamboanga apologized to Ayaka and her sponsors in the same post, but vowed to return stronger, underscoring her love for the sport.

"This sport means everything to me, and I promise I am fully committed to coming back stronger. My passion for fighting has not changed, and I will continue to work hard so that I can once again represent ONE at the highest level when I return."

Pacio, 28, will move up in weight for a high-stakes challenge against local favorite Yuya Wakamatsu for the ONE Flyweight MMA World Championship.

Zamboanga’s absence marks a temporary setback after her recent title win and shifts the spotlight to Pacio’s quest to reclaim world title glory in Tokyo.

Japanese mixed martial artist Ayaka Miura is determined to make history when she challenges Filipina champion Denice Zamboanga for the ONE Atomweight MMA World Title at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on November 16 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo.

Fighting on home soil, Miura—known as “Zombie”—expressed her excitement and sense of purpose. 

“I’m truly happy to fight for a world title here in Japan, where I was born and raised. I believe there’s meaning behind being given this opportunity. I will become the first Japanese woman to win a ONE Championship belt, and I’ll do it right here in Japan,” she said.

Riding a five-match winning streak, with four first-round submissions, Miura is eager to seize this moment. “I wasn’t able to get the strawweight title before, but this time, I’ll get what I left behind. I’ll prove the strength of Japanese fighters by winning the belt on home soil.”

Miura acknowledged the challenge Zamboanga presents. 

“At first, I thought she was mainly a grappler, but her striking has really improved. Now I see her as a complete all-rounder, physically very strong. I believe Zamboanga will come in with a solid ground defense strategy and try to turn it into a striking battle. Whether it’s on the feet or on the ground—even if the fight gets messy—I’ll do whatever it takes to win.”

Zamboanga, on a four-fight winning streak herself, will look to defend her title as the card kicks off a night featuring four championship bouts. 

Also on the card, Filipino Joshua Pacio aims for the flyweight MMA world title against Japan’s Yuya Wakamatsu, while Oumar Kane meets Anatoly Malykhin for the heavyweight crown and Superbon faces Masaaki Noiri to unify the featherweight kickboxing championship.

Undisputed ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Joshua Pacio is set to make history as he moves up a division to challenge Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu for the ONE Flyweight MMA World Title. Should Pacio succeed, he will become the first Filipino to claim world titles in two weight classes.

This highly anticipated champion vs. champion showdown takes place at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on November 16 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.

Pacio, fresh off his emphatic victory over Jarred Brooks to end their rivalry, knows the challenge ahead is formidable.

“Yuya is not the king of the flyweight division for nothing. He’s earned his spot at the top with his power and speed. I respect what he brings to the table,” said Pacio. “I know I’m facing a tough challenge, but I’m ready to give my best and represent the Philippines with pride.”

Wakamatsu rides a four-fight win streak, highlighted by a first-round knockout of former champion Adriano Moraes to seize the flyweight crown at ONE 172 last March. The Japanese champion has also claimed notable wins over Filipino contenders Danny Kingad and Geje Eustaquio.

Despite Wakamatsu’s momentum, Pacio is confident he can make his country proud. “I expect a fast-paced, strategic bout. We’re both intelligent fighters who know how to adapt, so I believe this will be an exciting, high-level match. I’m looking forward to the challenge and putting on a great show for the fans,” he said.

Wakamatsu, for his part, respects Pacio’s skills but feels ready for the challenge ahead.

“Joshua Pacio is a world champion and a dangerous, well-rounded fighter. But if I stick to my game plan, I’m confident I’ll come out on top. We’re both fast and tactical, so it’s going to be a fight fans will remember,” said Wakamatsu.

With both champions promising an explosive, high-level contest, fans can expect fireworks when Pacio and Wakamatsu collide in Tokyo.

ONE Atomweight MMA World Champion Denice Zamboanga defends her belt for the first time in this massive card for Philippine MMA — ONE 173, set for November 16 at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.

Zamboanga will tackle a hostile environment as she battles the Japanese star and defends her strap against Ayaka Miura.

On the other hand, Miura will jumpstart her title reign chase against the red-hot Zamboanga, having won her last five fights in the most impressive fashion.

“The Menace” became the first Filipina to win a championship in a major MMA organization last January, and she wants nothing more than to be remembered as a fighting champion who never said no to a match.

That’s why, even though she’s eyeing a highly anticipated superfight with her good friend and highly popular atomweight star Stamp Fairtex, she’s not waiting around for her first defense.

"I believe God’s timing is always perfect, and I’m honored to defend this belt against Ayaka Miura in Japan. She’s one of the strongest grapplers in the atomweight division, and I’ve watched how relentless she is with her ground game. There’s still a long road ahead in my preparation, but I’m committed to putting in the work and showing up stronger than ever," Zamboanga said.

Filipino MMA star Joshua “The Passion” Pacio is set to chase history as he aims to become the Philippines’ first two-division world champion in ONE Championship.

Widely recognized as the most accomplished strawweight in the promotion’s history, Pacio is moving up in weight to challenge newly crowned flyweight champion Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu at ONE 173 on November 16 at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.

Now 29, Pacio has exclusively competed at strawweight throughout his ONE career. Despite stepping into unfamiliar territory, he embraces the challenge. 

“This is a new chapter for me. I know the odds, but I’ve been through adversity before. I’m ready for this,” Pacio shared. 

Earlier this year, Pacio made a triumphant return after nearly a year sidelined by a partially torn ACL. At ONE 171 in Qatar last February, he completed his trilogy against Jarred Brooks for the ONE Strawweight MMA World Title. 

After surviving a dangerous guillotine attempt in the opening round, Pacio rallied in the second, unleashing ground-and-pound to unify the strawweight crown. 

The win improved his record to 23-4 and marked his seventh reign as ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion.

At ONE 173, Pacio faces a formidable opponent in Wakamatsu, who enters the bout on a four-fight win streak, including a victory over Pacio’s teammate Danny Kingad. 

Wakamatsu claimed the vacant ONE Flyweight title at ONE 172 in May with a knockout win over Adriano Moraes.

Despite the challenge of fighting in front of a partisan Japanese crowd, Pacio remains undeterred. 

“I’ll be walking into his backyard, but I know the Filipino spirit travels well. I’m doing this not just for me, but for the entire Philippines,” he said.

A victory would make Pacio the first Filipino to capture ONE world titles in two divisions, cementing his legacy as one of the country’s greatest combat sports icons.

Training in sweltering 100-degree heat is about more than just building physical endurance; it’s driven by purpose, passion, and a desire to leave a meaningful legacy.

When the sun blazes overhead and every part of you screams to give up, that’s when your true motivation is put to the ultimate test. So the real question is: Are you staying motivated?

For Jared “The Monkey God” Brooks, training isn’t only about personal ambition—it’s about the next generation. The 17- and 18-year-olds who carry the same dreams he once held.

Brooks has the privilege of shaping their journeys, guiding them, and standing beside them as they strive for greatness. That’s what God desires, and that’s where true fulfillment lies.

This journey is not without its challenges. Fatigue, injury, and family pressures weigh heavily. But he made a steadfast commitment: he will stay the course.

Nothing and no one will deter him. And that same energy? He shares it generously with anyone prepared to walk this path with the same intensity.

Because this isn’t just training. It’s a calling. A long-term commitment.

 One of the most iconic figures in mixed martial arts history is hanging up his gloves.

Jon “Bones” Jones, widely considered the greatest MMA fighter of all time, has officially retired, UFC president Dana White confirmed at a press conference on Saturday, June 21.

“Jon Jones called us last night and retired. Jon Jones has officially retired,” White announced.

“Tom Aspinall is the heavyweight champion of the UFC,” he added.

Jones, 37, later confirmed his retirement, posting on X that “this decision comes after a lot of reflection.”

“I’m excited to see how I can continue to contribute to the sport and inspire others in new ways,” he said in his statement. “Thank you all for being part of this incredible journey with me. The best is yet to come,” Jones wrote in his post.

Discussing the future of the heavyweight division, White confirmed that Tom Aspinall will attend UFC International Fight Week, where crucial decisions about the division’s direction will be made.

The highly anticipated prospect of a showdown between Aspinall and Jones has been a major topic within the heavyweight division for months, particularly following Jones' successful title defense against Stipe Miocic in November.

Fan demand for the matchup reached a crescendo; a recent petition calling for White to strip Jones of his heavyweight title amassed over 195,000 signatures—a clear indication of public sentiment.

Just two weeks ago, White expressed confidence that the fight would happen, revealing that Jones had accepted a deal to face Aspinall, although the contract had yet to be finalized.

Jones acknowledged that he doesn’t control the division's direction, admitting he hasn't mapped out his future plans. He even floated the idea of challenging former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou—a scenario White promptly dismissed. This back-and-forth only adds to the intrigue surrounding both fighters and the heavyweight landscape.

“Tom Aspinall is the guy. We’ve been talking to this kid forever about it. It’s his fight. You can’t make people fight. If Jon doesn’t want to fight, we can’t make him fight. We can try to make him fight, we can throw things at him that inspire him to want to fight,” White added.

Just weeks ago, speculation remained high, with White saying Jones had verbally accepted a bout against Aspinall. Meanwhile, the fan petition calling for Jones to be stripped of his title had amassed over 195,000 signatures, signaling growing frustration over the heavyweight stalemate.

While he steps away from active competition, Jones hinted at continued involvement in the sport in a new capacity, suggesting that his journey is far from over—just entering a new phase.

Whether through mentorship, promotion, or advocacy, Jones’ influence on MMA is likely to endure far beyond his final walk to the Octagon.

Jhanlo Mark Sangiao is fired up to return to the ONE Championship stage—especially as Team Lakay’s new generation continues to shine.

The 22-year-old standout from Baguio City has been watching closely as his teammates have made waves in recent months.

Rising talents like Carlo Bumina-ang, Carlos Alvarez, and Jean Claude Saclag have delivered impressive performances on the ONE Friday Fights platform, bringing fresh energy and momentum to the legendary Team Lakay stable.

Now, Sangiao is ready to rejoin the fray—and he knows the stakes are higher than ever.

After suffering the first loss of his professional career last year via submission to #4-ranked Enkh-Orgil Baatarkhuu, Sangiao has had time to reflect and refocus.

“Honestly, I felt like in my first few fights I was playing around. I felt like I wasn’t mature enough. I was just going through the motions and merely enjoying the moment. But then I faced Enkh-Orgil, and that fight really reminded me that I can’t just play around,” Sangiao said.

Branded as the face of Team Lakay’s next wave of warriors, the second-generation fighter understands that expectations are high—and so is the responsibility.

“I wasn’t fully focused in my first few fights. That loss was a wake-up call,” Sangiao admitted.

For Jhanlo, talent alone won’t be enough to reach the top. He’s learned that preparation, discipline, and mental sharpness are just as important.

“That fight showed me how far I truly am from reaching my goals. I have to add more skills, more techniques, and be more composed. That loss basically made me realize that just when I thought I knew it all, I don’t. There’s a lot to be learned,” Sangiao said.

Now, with the spotlight returning to him, he’s determined to rise to the challenge and prove he’s ready to lead the next chapter of Team Lakay’s legacy.

On Friday, March 28, 2025, Islay Erika Bomogao is set to make her return at ONE Friday Fights 102 in Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, Bangkok, Thailand.

The pride of Baguio City will once again put her undefeated record on the line against Spain’s Nerea Rubio in 103-pound Muay Thai action.

Bomogao has endeared herself to fans abroad, particularly the Thai crowd at Lumpinee, after showcasing her carefree “Pinoy style” Muay Thai.

She dazzled in her two matches last year, defeating Ran Longshu and Fuu in convincing fashion to make a strong impression in the promotion.

In her social media post, Bomogao called for support for her fight along with her fellow Filipino fighters who will also compete on Friday.

“Please support me and my team, including my fellow Filipinos Jean Claude Saclag and Marwin Quirante, who will be opening the show,” said Bomogao in her post.

The main event features a 130-pound Muay Thai bout between Rambong Sor Therapat and his Thai compatriot Pompet Panthonggym, with major implications. Rambong is riding a seven-fight winning streak ahead of this clash, while Pompet, having lost back-to-back fights, has nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Additionally, Scotland’s Rudy Da Silva, Japan’s Takuma Ota, and Russia’s Torepchi Dongak all return to action.

Meanwhile, multiple SEA Games kickboxing gold medalist Jean Claude “The Dynamite” Saclag of Team Lakay makes his MMA return alongside his Filipino compatriot, rising MMA star Marwin "Green Goblin" Quirante, who will also showcase his skills at ONE Friday Fights 102.

"Green Goblin" secured two first-round finishes in ONE Friday Fights, while Saclag earned two TKO wins over Lee Jun Young and Fajar. He looks to follow in the footsteps of Carlo Bumina-ang as a winner.

It's now or never for ONE strawweight MMA world champion and the pride of the Philippines, Joshua “The Passion” Pacio.

The Filipino mixed martial artist is now in the midst of showing the world that he is better than rival Jarred “The Monkey God” Brooks ahead of their title unification bout at ONE 171:Qatar on Thursday, February, 20, 2025. 

This will be an epic World Title trilogy fight to unify the divisional belts.

The two MMA star fighters first collided in late 2022 at ONE 164, when Brooks earned an impressive decision to catch up the win and capture the Filipino’s undisputed strawweight MMA crown.

In March 2024, they had a rematch at ONE 166: Qatar, where the American MMA fighter delivered an illegal slam in the opening minute, losing via disqualification and giving the World Title back to the Filipino fighter.

Now, it’s clear that “The Passion” will need to make some critical tactical adjustments to leave Qatar as the undisputed ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion.

Pacio said in an interview that he would show no fear in the trilogy-capping match and need to be selective, and never let his rival dictate the action on his feet.

“The thing that I want to show is a fighter who isn’t scared of what’s gonna happen in the ring, a fighter who isn’t scared to get taken down. A fighter who isn’t scared of being put in a precarious position on the ground. I want to show that I know what to do now,” he said.

The 29-year-old MMA fighter admitted that he got “stagnant” due to being “too worried about getting taken down, and now, he will be more focused on attacking and making Brooks as uncomfortable as possible.

“I was waiting for an opening, and that’s my error. That’s why he was able to land those clean shots. Credit to him because his footwork and movement really frustrated me,I want to show I have answers, that I’m not just gonna rely on my takedown defense to stop him, but I can battle him on the ground, even on my back.” 

“I want to show that he’s not just the one who’s a threat in wrestling. Maybe I’ll take him down, as well. Like [Demetrious Johnson], that ‘Mighty Mouse’ mentality,” he added. 

The Pacio-Brooks trilogy will be the main event of ONE 171, which will be held at the Lusail Sports Arena.

Two of the country's Filipina fighters secured victories in their fights this past weekend.

Muay Thai fighter Islay Erika Bomogao clinched her second win after winning a unanimous decision against her opponent, Chinese fighter Ran Longshu, at ONE Friday Fights 93 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, on Friday night, January 10.

In the opening round of their match, her Chinese opponent immediately showed aggression, but Bomogao showed her defense and immediately hit the Chinese fighter with a series of combo punches until she finally gained the advantage over her opponent.

With the win, Bomogao now has a 2-0 win-loss record.

Meanwhile, mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga made history by defeating Ukrainian grappler Alyona Rassohyna via second-round technical knockout on Saturday, January 11, in the co-main event of ONE Fight Night 27 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

Zamboanga is now the first Filipina mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter to win the ONE Championship crown and an impressive win over the women’s MMA atomweight title.

To secure the victory, the 27-year-old Filipina fighter used her striking skills with well-aimed punches and good grappling defense to overcome Rassohyna, who tried to use her for Zamboanga.

The referee stopped the fight at 4:47 after Zamboanga landed elbows and ground and pound punches and was able to break through Rassohyna’s ankle lock attempt.

Zamboanga couldn't believe her victory, which she had been hoping for for years, and now her efforts have paid off.

“I’ve been aiming for this gold for years. I’m not here for short notice or something, I’ve made this from hard work, tears and everything. The delays and injuries, I’ve had a lot of injuries. Last two weeks ago I couldn’t move my left arm. But I didn’t want to cancel the fight because I know God will give me this belt. Thank you for giving me this opportunity,”  Zamboanga said. 

Because of her impressive win, she will now be able to fight for the unification bout against the regular champion of her division, Stamp Fairtex. 

“I really deserve to fight stamp because I proved it (in this fight) by finishing my opponent’,” Zamboanga added.