In the semifinal of “Lemino BOXING Phoenix Battle 152” at Korakuen Hall on the 24th, “super prospect” Yuta Sakai (Ohashi) secured a dominant 3-0 unanimous decision victory over Philippines bantamweight No. 11 Wesley Caga (PHI), with scores of 79–73, 79–73, and 80–72. While this marked the first time since turning professional that Sakai did not win by knockout, he successfully extended his winning streak to seven.
貴重な８ラウンズを経験した坂井㊧
Sakai appeared dissatisfied despite the wide-margin decision victory. He was likely reflecting deeply on his first win by decision and his inability to score a knockdown.
Starting the bout by landing left straights behind a long flicker jab, Sakai gave the impression that an early finish was imminent. However, as Sakai pressed the offense, Caga landed a counter left hook that caused Sakai’s knees to buckle. While it was not enough damage to cause a knockdown, it was a blow that seemed to trigger a sense of impatience in Sakai.
In the early rounds, Sakai appeared fixated on linear movement in his eagerness to land a heavy left. Caga, having timed the left, managed to evade it and fire back with his own right. Credit must be given to Caga, who refused to be intimidated by Sakai’s power and attacked with conviction.
As the rounds progressed, Sakai regained his composure, building his offense off the right jab, increasing his feints, and utilizing lateral movement with subtle footwork to land right hooks and left body uppers. However, Caga remained resilient and responsive, demonstrating professional technique and toughness by meeting Sakai’s counters with counters of his own.
Ultimately, Sakai’s skill allowed him to outwork his opponent for the points. Going the full distance against the toughest and most tenacious opponent of his professional career likely came at the perfect time for Sakai’s future development. Sakai (20) moves to 7-0 (6 KOs), while Caga (25) falls to 7-3 (3 KOs).
