Pacio Reclaims ONE Strawweight Title After Controversial Disqualification in Qatar

DOHA, Qatar — In an unexpected turn of events at ONE 166 held at the Lusail Sports Arena, Joshua Pacio was reinstated as the ONE strawweight champion following a controversial disqualification of American fighter Jarred Brooks just 56 seconds into their championship rematch on Friday night. The fight’s abrupt end came after referee Herb Dean stopped the bout, initially perceived as a knockout victory for Brooks during a ground-and-pound sequence.

According to Philippines News Agency, the disqualification was due to Brooks executing what was deemed an “illegal spike” by slamming Pacio headfirst onto the canvas during a takedown attempt. This move is prohibited under the organization’s guidelines. Consequently, Pacio, who was receiving medical treatment at the time of the announcement, marked his sixth tenure as the champion of the 125-pound division.

Chatri Sityodtong, the chief executive officer of ONE Championship, confirmed in a post-fight press conference that Pacio was in stable condition, noting a sprained neck but otherwise fine health. Pacio underwent a series of tests overnight in a Lusail hospital to assess any further injuries. Eduard Folayang, Pacio’s longtime training partner, also provided an update stating Pacio was conscious and able to move, reassuring fans of his condition through a Facebook statement.

The incident led to immediate reactions from both camps, with Sityodtong expressing disappointment over the fight’s conclusion and categorically denying a potential protest from Brooks’ team, which argued the move was a result of escaping a Kimura submission hold. Sityodtong emphasized the action’s illegality, maintaining the decision to uphold the disqualification and Pacio’s reinstatement as champion.

Despite the controversial finish, discussions about a third match between Pacio and Brooks to conclusively determine the superior fighter in the division were downplayed by Sityodtong, who prioritized Pacio’s full recovery over arranging a trilogy fight.

The night also saw Pacio’s compatriot, Filipino strawweight contender Jeremy Miado, facing a setback with a first-round submission loss to Japanese opponent Keito Yamakita, underscoring the highs and lows for Filipino fighters at the event.