Joshua Pacio has always drawn strength from those closest to him. But heading into his ONE Strawweight MMA World Championship defense against Russian grappler Mansur Malachiev at The Inner Circle 21 on July 10, live on live.onefc.com, the Filipino has a new and powerful source of motivation by his side.
Last December, Pacio married his girlfriend Anna Galleo, and the impact on his life inside and outside the gym has been immediate and profound.
The Lions Nation MMA product, who carries a 23-5 career record and a 14-5 ONE record into the title defense, is riding a three-fight win streak in the strawweight division and arriving at this rematch in the best shape of his life, with no small part of that credit going to his new wife.
"She's been an absolute godsend for me, especially in my career. She helps me with my meal plan, cooking for me every day. She really makes this training camp easier," he said.
The demands of a World Championship training camp are relentless, and having a partner who understands and actively supports that process has made a difference for the 30-year-old Filipino.
"Lately I've been so eager to fight. I just want to get in the ring and defend my title. I feel impatient sometimes, but she keeps me grounded," he explained.
For Pacio, the motivation driving him into this rematch runs deeper than just defending a belt. Marriage has shifted his perspective in ways that have only added to the fire within him.
"I can say it's added motivation. I'm no longer just thinking about myself. Of course, we're two individuals, but we're one now. I'm now thinking about future plans, future children, maybe businesses," he added.
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