Is the end near for Kazuto Ioka…Again?
On June 19 former three-division champion Kazuto Ioka (23-2, 13 KO’s) will attempt to win a fourth divisional title, as he will face Aston Palicte in Chiba, Japan for the vacant WBO super flyweight title.
This will be his second attempt at the vacant title. On December 31, 2018 in Macau, China, he lost a hard-fought battle to Donnie Nietes.
With Nietes deciding to vacate the belt, can the former champion take advantage of this second opportunity?
In the days leading up to the fight, there have been some surprising developments from the Ioka camp. During a June 15 public workout for the Japanese boxing media, the former champion suggests the bout with Palicte (25-2-1, 21 KO’s) could be his final bout.
“Kore ga saigo no shiai ni naru kamo shirenai!”
Translated to English the quote means “this may be my last resort!”
Ioka’s remarks have created a bit of a stir among the Japanese media. Could the upcoming fight with Palicte represent the final bout of his career, particularly if he loses?
It would not be a complete shock if he chose to call it a day.
Keep in mind he has previously retired from the sport. In December 2017, Ioka announced he was done only to return to the ring in September 2018.
Given this developing situation, it brings even more intrigue for the upcoming bout against Palicte.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
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