Former ONE world champion Alex Silva of Brazil is looking to book himself a rematch against reigning ONE strawweight world champion Joshua Pacio, should he get past his next opponent.
Silva takes on rising Japanese star Hiroba Minowa at ONE: Fists of Fury III, a previously recorded event from the Singapore Indoor Stadium in Singapore which will be broadcast on weekend.
The Brazilian has succumbed the world title to Pacio in January 2020, losing by a closely-contested split decision after five rounds of action. Although Silva believed he won that fight, he says he has moved on and is focused now on earning his place back at the top.
If Silva can get past Minowa, he could certainly make a case. The 38-year-old veteran and Copa de Mundo BJJ world champion is known as one of the most dangerous fighters at strawweight.
“I think I deserve one more shot at the world title,” Silva said.
Against Minowa, however, Silva may have his hands full.
Minowa was last seen in October, snatching a split decision win of his own against Team Lakay’s Lito Adiwang.
In that fight, Minowa barely escaped the jaws of defeat as he nearly succumbed to a deep kimura in the first round. Still, the Japanese fighter showcased tremendous grappling ability to turn the tables on Adiwang and eventually take home the victory on the scorecards.
Silva studied Minowa’s most recent performance and knows what to expect against the former shooto champion.
“I was quite surprised, because Lito is a strong guy in the division. But Minowa controlled the fight and deserved to win. I’m excited for the chance to test my skills against him. I believe I’m the best grappler in the division, and have everything I need to finish him. I’m going to finish him in the second round,” Silva added.
Pacio is yet to respond to Silva’s challenge. – Harley F. Palangchao
April 26, 2024
