- Tell me what you think about your next fight.
This is the third time for me to fight on NYE. I'm very honored to participate in the biggest MMA event of the year in Japan. I had been thinking about fighting an MMA fighter, so I was surprised when I first heard about Kozo Takeda who is a great kickboxer.
- Your nickname is "Crusher." You have no opportunity to pound him and show him your strength.
I know I am going to be at a disadvantage because we're fighting under the K-1 rules. I'm an underdog and I might be dominated, yet I'm very excited to see what I can do. I'm not afraid of taking a risk and getting badly injured. I'm not going to make any excuse even if I lose. I have the courage of challenging a top K-1 fighter.
- Did you think about your fighting style and plan?
As usual, I fight aggressively from the beginning. I'm not an exceptionally talented fighter like Genki Sudo and Norifumi "KID" Yamamoto. All I can do is to give my best all the time. My legs will be broken when I get hit by his kicks more than 5 times. I should avoid getting hit with legkicks and finish him as soon as I can. I'm training hard, and won't miss any single chance, so I have a chance to win.
- Any message to your fans?
Accepting this offer may be an impulsive decision, but I believe there are many things to be gained by experiencing this fight. I hope my fight encouraged people to make challenging New Year resolutions.
Get the latest gear
