ONE 173 preview and prediction: Yuya Wakamatsu vs. Joshua Pacio

Reigning ONE flyweight MMA world champion Yuya Wakamatsu will seek to usher in his reign by defending his throne for the first time in the co-main event of ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri.

However, what awaits him is no ordinary challenger, in the form of ONE strawweight MMA kingpin Joshua Pacio.

This champion vs. champion showcase will take place in the biggest martial arts event of the year this coming Sunday, Nov. 16, at Tokyo's Ariake Arena.

Wakamatsu is the poster boy for perseverance and never giving up.

'Little Piranha' had his ups and downs in the home of martial arts, but eventually climbed the mountain top through sheer hard work and determination.

The Japanese warrior embodies the Bushido spirit, which he displayed in his title-winning knockout over Adriano Moraes last March.

Now, the 30-year-old star aims to replicate that performance, or perhaps even top it in front of his loyal fans.

But across from him is a Filipino warrior carrying the hopes of an entire nation.

Pacio's journey mirrors Wakamatsu's, using past setbacks to improve and fulfill his destiny.

'The Passion' is not just fighting for himself – he's out to become the Philippines' first-ever two-division MMA world champion.

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Prediction: Joshua Pacio defeats Yuya Wakamatsu via submission in Round 4

Backed by the roaring Japanese crowd, Yuya Wakamatsu should once again start fast and punish Joshua Pacio with sharp and powerful combinations right off the bat.

But the Filipino has been in these pressure-packed situations before and knows how to weather the storm. His wushu background should help him create some separation against the aggressive Japanese headhunter.

Wakamatsu will remain persistent and turn the tide in his favor by clipping Pacio with his wicked overhand rights.

But I expect the challenger to bide his time and turn this into a grueling grappling contest with well-timed takedowns.

Pacio showed incredible top control in his last win against Jarred Brooks, and he should employ the same tactics against the heavy-handed champion.

Wakamatsu's grappling defense has also gotten better over time, which should allow him to return to his feet.

I see the Tribe Tokyo MMA affiliate winning the stand-up war, but Pacio will be too smart and keep taking him down whenever he gets the chance.

By Round 4, the strawweight king's experience will play a major factor. The pressure from carrying Pacio's weight from the early rounds will eventually sap Wakamatsu's energy.

Pacio will slither his way to Wakamatsu's back and claim two-division glory via a rear-naked choke.