Could the returning Katsunari Takayama next face Knockout CP Freshmart?
In April 2020, former four-time strawweight world champion Katsunari Takayama (31-8, 12 KOs) announced he was making a comeback following a three-year retirement from pro ranks. Now, it looks like the 37-year-old may be in line for a world title shot.
As first reported by Japanese news site Sports Hochi, Takayama and his promoter Nobuhiro Ishida have received an offer to fight WBA “Super” World Strawweight champion Knockout CP Freshmart (21-0, 7 KOs). It is anticipated that should negotiations become finalized, the bout would take place in Osaka, Japan.
According to the former world 105-champ, this was not the first time he was offered the opportunity to fight Freshmart. After failing to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics, Takayama took a trip to Thailand to visit a one-time opponent and now good friend Eagle Junlaphan in October 2019.
During his time in Thailand, Takayama claimed he was approached by representatives from Freshmart’s camp about a fight in November. However, he turned it down due to not having enough time to prepare.
GETTING IT DONE
Nothing has been formally announced and there’s a lot of work to be done for the bout to take place. First and foremost, the sport is still technically suspended in Japan due to COVID-19. Secondly, once boxing gyms are allowed to open again and fights are allowed to take place, Takayama has to be given a license to fight by the Japanese Boxing Commission.
If made, this would be a big fight for Freshmart. Takayama has the distinction of being the first boxer from Japan to win a world title from all four major sanctioning organizations.
Despite his undefeated record and being a world “super” champion since 2016, Freshmart does not have a high-profile name on his resume. A win over someone as accomplished as Takayama would certainly qualify as one. We at 3KingsBoxing will keep you updated on this developing story.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
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