Joshua Pacio says leaving Team Lakay 'the path that I have to take' to reclaim ONE strawweight title

Joshua Pacio confirmed his exit from Team Lakay. ONE Championship (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—Joshua Pacio has finally confirmed his departure from Team Lakay after speculations over the weekend.

According to Pacio, the exit was needed as he guns for the ONE strawweight title again.

"In my quest to better myself and reclaim the belt that was once mine, I have decided that moving out of the fabled stable that gave Filipino fight fans much to cheer for inside the Circle is the path that I have to take," Pacio said on Monday.

He added, "I believe that stepping out of my comfort zone is the way to level up my overall skills in the world of combat sports. There is much to do for me to recapture the throne and it begins with this step," which somehow hints that he is moving to another stable.

Pacio relinquished the ONE strawweight title to Jarred Brooks at ONE 164 last December at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

Pacio believes that the loss gave him a lesson to never stop improving despite being a champion.

"There is a saying that champions never rest on their laurels and must continue sharpening their skills," he further said.

Pacio then vowed a major comeback, saying, "My hero's quest is only beginning and I am excited to get this on track."

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