Kenshiro Teraji Wants a Clear Victory in Rematch with Masamichi Yabuki
Kenshiro Teraji (18-1, 10 KOs) is fueled by vengeance and hungry to reclaim what he lost. On March 19, the 30-year-old will step back into the ring in a rematch against reigning WBC junior flyweight champion Masamichi Yabuki (13-3, 12 KOs) at the City Gym in Kyoto, Japan.
Yabuki stopped Teraji in ten to win the WBC title on September 22, 2021. Entering the bout, Teraji was a significant favorite. But the unheralded Yabuki came from seemingly nowhere to stage one of the biggest upsets of 2021. Afterward, Teraji’s handlers petitioned the WBC for an immediate rematch. The sanctioning body granted their request. At that point, representatives for Teraji and Yabuki quickly agreed to terms to run it back.
READY TO DO IT AGAIN
On March 11, Teraji and his father/promoter, Hasashi, took part in a press conference and public workout for local media in Japan. According to source Asian Boxing, Teraji and his father were full of confidence. The former champ revealed he’s done 150 rounds of sparring in preparation. Talking to the media before the workout, Teraji said that one thing is on his mind.
(Translated from Japanese) “Because I’m a challenger, it’s a little different from usual, but I just want to win firmly”.
Teraji’s father said he’s convinced his son will reclaim the belt.
CAN HE MAKE THE ADJUSTMENTS?
If that is to happen, they must change some things up. In their first fight, Masamichi used his jab and advantages in height and length to build an early lead and frustrate his foe. Teraji rallied in the middle rounds and seemed certain of a stoppage win. But after opening a cut on Teraji, Masamichi rallied in his own right as he hurt and ultimately stopped Teraji.
Can Teraji turn the tables, or does Masamichi have his number? Was Masamichi’s win a fluke, or was he underestimated all along? The answers to those questions will play themselves out on March 19.
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By: Michael Wilson Jr.
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