Public festivities for the double world title event “THE DAY” (May 2, Tokyo Dome) have officially commenced. On the 17th, Kazuto Ioka (Shisei) conducted a public workout at the Shisei Gym in Meguro, Tokyo, ahead of his challenge for the WBC bantamweight title. Ioka is set to face the reigning champion, Takuma Inoue (Ohashi).
ていねいなシャドーを１Ｒ披露した井岡 photo/Naoki Fukuda
Entering his 28th world title bout, the seasoned veteran—vying for a world title in a fifth weight division—maintained his characteristic composure but admitted, “My motivation is higher than ever.” The 37-year-old Ioka expressed his mindset regarding the major stage: “Having come this far in my professional career, I am grateful to be able to challenge for such an opportunity at this point.”
Describing the champion, Takuma, as “not an opponent who can be easily defeated,” Ioka stated, “I will focus on doing exactly what I need to do.” He emphasized his desire to overcome the formidable Takuma Inoue over the historical significance of a fifth division title. During the session for the media, Ioka limited his display to shadowboxing without gloves.
“THE DAY” features the undisputed world super-bantamweight title clash between Naoya Inoue (Ohashi) and Junto Nakatani (M.T) as the main event, alongside the WBC bantamweight title fight between Inoue and Ioka, and the return of Yoshiki Takei (Ohashi). The event will be broadcast via PPV on Lemino.
