Both World Boxing Organization super flyweight champion Kazuto Ioka of Ambition GYM and top-ranked challenger Kosei Tanaka of Soul Box Hatanaka Boxing Gym went through regular medical check-ups in Tokyo on Dec. 29 before their showdown at Tokyo’s Ota Ward Gymnasium on New Year’s Eve.

The 31-year-old Ioka, who is making his second defense of the title he won in June 2019, said, ‘’True I had some anxiousness when the fight was decided. But thanks to the support of many people, I have been able to practice smoothly. I will return their courtesy with my outcome.’’ His chief trainer Ismael Salas of Cuba has been in Japan for the fight.

While both have almost the same physical sizes, Ioka, with braided hairstyles, said, ‘’I think it is easier for me to fight because I can fight my fight. As I have said I will show the difference of class in every aspect.’’

Meanwhile, the 25-year-old Tanaka said, ‘’I was able to prepare for the fight superbly. Compared with before, my physical strength and conditions are much better. I will definitely show my best performance.’’ It will become a tremendous fight, and I will aim at a knockout victory.’’

Ioka, who has won world titles in four different weight categories, has a record of 25 wins, including 14 knockouts, against two losses, while undefeated Tanaka, who has so far captured WBO minimumweight, light flyweight and flyweight crowns, has 15 wins, including nine KOs.  Photos by Ambition Gym