Yuya Wakamatsu of Japan is working non-stop in preparation for his first-ever ONE flyweight MMA world title defense. Known as the “Little Piranha,” Wakamatsu will put his 26 pounds of gold on the line against a dangerous challenger aiming for two-division supremacy. He is set to face undisputed ONE strawweight MMA world champion Joshua Pacio at ONE 173 on November 16.
Given the caliber of his opponent, Wakamatsu is leaving no stone unturned in training to ensure he covers all bases. The 30-year-old athlete is eager to deliver another epic performance in front of his loyal fanbase at Ariake Arena.
In a recent vlog post on his YouTube channel, Wakamatsu shared insight into his preparation:
“I still have some time until the fight, which is on November 16. So I’m thinking of focusing on the things I haven’t been able to focus on since the year started. But, I think I’m in the final stretch [of my camp]. I don’t want to make my last couple of weeks of training camp too simple.”
The Tribe Tokyo MMA fighter continued, “I’m thinking of trying out a lot of different techniques, things I don’t normally do or show. Maybe I want to do mountain running, and other things to strengthen my mental side. Things like that.”
Watch the full vlog post: *Yuya Wakamatsu ready to go five rounds against Joshua Pacio*
Wakamatsu is known for his aggressive style and finishing fights early. In fact, his last outing saw him defeat Adriano “Mikinho” Moraes in the first round to claim the ONE flyweight MMA crown. However, he acknowledges that facing Joshua Pacio will be a different challenge.
The Japanese KO machine admits that landing the finishing blow early may be difficult against “The Passion.” As such, he is prepared to go the distance and outlast his opponent if necessary.
“In my opinion, I’d like to have a real, fierce, and action-packed fight that will last into the fifth round. Yes, that’s what I hope for,” Wakamatsu told ONE Championship.
Stay tuned to Sportskeeda and ONE Championship for continued updates on Yuya Wakamatsu’s upcoming title defense.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/news-yuya-wakamatsu-winding-camp-joshua-pacio-intense-training-trying-lot-different-techniques
