Takesako retains his perfect record!
Undefeated prospect Kazuto Takesako (10-0, 10KOs) successfully defended the title Japanese middleweight against Sanosuke Sasaki (12-6, 6KOs) in a thriller.
The opening bell saw the underdog Sasaki come out like a man possessed. He took the fight to the champion using his height and reach advantage. His experience as a former Japanese champion was on display, as he stunned Takesako with quick combinations. Takesako found his rhythm as the round came to a close, buckling the challenger’s legs.
Realizing he was in for a fight, Champion Takesako turned it up a notch in round two. He landed some big power punches while applying pressure until finally landing a devastating right hand that ended the fight.
Aside from having an unimpressive record, Sasaki had no quit in him. He showed heart, but this could have been his last hoorah.
In retaining the title, the champion could be looking at a busy 2019 schedule. There is a possibility of a rematch with previous title holder Hikaru Nishida. However, this happens only if he wins the upcoming contest with Shuji Kato.
Another possibility is a fight with OPBF/WBO Asia Pacific middleweight champion Shinobu Charlie Hosokawa.
If the goal is to make a huge splash in 2019, Ryota Murata has to be on his radar. Fighting the former WBA “regular” middleweight champion would definitely be a mega fight.
Whatever the next move will be, one thing is certain. Takesako proved to be up for the challenge.
By: Garrisson Bland
I just can’t see Money in a MMA or a kick boxing match.