On March 1, 2024, the Lusail Sports Arena in Qatar became the battleground for the historic ONE 166 event, marking ONE Championship's grand debut in the country. At the heart of the event was the much-awaited rematch between Jarred "The Monkey God" Brooks and Joshua "The Passion" Pacio, representing Lions Nation MMA, for the ONE Strawweight Championship. This match was not just a fight for the title but also a moment to settle scores, with both fighters eager to prove their supremacy in the division.
A Match with an Unexpected Turn
The fight kicked off with Brooks showing incredible energy but struggling to land his attacks on Pacio. On the other hand, Pacio, known for his skill and agility, managed to hit Brooks with a well-placed low kick. The dynamics of the fight took a sharp turn when Brooks, in an attempt to overpower Pacio, executed a slam that ended with Pacio's head hitting the mat, incapacitating him.
This move led to Brooks's disqualification under the Global Mixed Martial Arts Rule Set, which strictly prohibits slams to the head, neck, or spine. Just 56 seconds into the first round, this decision saw Pacio reclaiming the ONE Strawweight MMA World Title, evening out their rivalry at 1-1 and setting the stage for a potential trilogy.
Brooks's Heartfelt Message
After the match, Brooks reached out to Pacio with a heartfelt message, expressing his regret over the incident.
"I wish nothing but the best for you, brother. I hope you're okay. I am sorry for letting down my family and the organization. I did not intend to do anything wrong. #andnew Congratulations!"
This gesture showed the sportsmanship and respect between the two fighters, despite the competitive nature of their encounter.
More Than Just a Fight Night
ONE 166 in Qatar wasn't just about the strawweight championship. The event showcased a range of martial arts, including boxing, submission grappling, and Muay Thai. Notable victories included Anatoly Malykhin's win over Reinier de Ridder for the Middleweight Championship and Tang Kai's victory in the featherweight title unification bout against Thanh Le, highlighting the diverse talent pool within ONE Championship.
Looking Forward
The unexpected outcome of the Brooks vs. Pacio match has sparked discussions and anticipation for a third fight. This rematch has not only added a new chapter to their rivalry but has also highlighted the unpredictability and excitement of mixed martial arts. As Pacio once again holds the strawweight title, the future is ripe with possibilities for these fighters and the sport.
