Alex Silva open to defending strawweight world title against Joshua Pacio

Newly crowned ONE strawweight world champion Alex Silva is willing to give Joshua Pacio of Team Lakay a shot at his title following his dominant victory over Yoshitaka Naito this past Saturday at Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.

Silva, 35,  showcased he's far from being a one dimensinal fighter when he utilized his striking to overcome his fellow jiu-jitsu specialist in Naito. The Brazilian fighter says he's willing to stake his title against the young Pacio, but cites that his time to reign is now.

"He's a good fighter and a young kid, but it's my time and this is just the beginning," answered Silva when asked if he's willing to meet the Team Lakay fighter in a showdown.

"I respect every fighter, he's a nice kid who is very aggressive when he fights. But I feel untouchable, I feel I improve every day, I felt like a champion since day one. "

The 21-year-old Pacio is one of the hottest talents in Team Lakay's current roster. He challenged for the ONE strawweight world title a year ago in a fight that he managed to impress despite losing by rear naked choke in round three.

And should the young filipino phenom gets another crack at the title, Silva warns that Pacio will go through the eye of a needle to win the gold plated strap.

"Now that I have this belt I will protect this with my life," said Silva. "Anyone who steps up against me will have a hard time." — LA, GMA News