Second-ranked flyweight MMA contender Yuya Wakamatsu welcomes promotional newcomer Gilbert Nakatani to ONE Championship this weekend at ONE Fight Night 26: Lee vs. Rasulov, and he’s ready to remind the world why he’s one of the top names in his division.
“Little Piranha” collides with Nakatani at the December 7 events at Lumpinee Stadium, Bangkok, and a win for him could have huge repercussions for his quest to get a shot at the ONE flyweight MMA world title.
Former king Demetrious Johnson retired and relinquished the belt this past September, leaving the stacked division more open than ever before. And while many would argue that Wakamatsu has more to lose than gain in taking on a hungry challenger with much to prove, the Japanese slugger sees it as a perfect opportunity to affirm his position.
“It could be risky, depending on how you look at it. But I feel I have an advantage because of the experience I’ve gained competing in ONE. It’s like defending my home turf – I have a strong determination not to lose,” Wakamatsu said.
“He’ll be looking for a finish in every aspect, and so will I. The key is to find balance and not get reckless. He has a strong right hand and plenty of power, so I need to make sure I don’t lose in those areas.”
Wakamatsu is currently riding high on a two-fight win streak. He knocked out Xie Wei last July and bested Danny Kingad at ONE 165 in January, so he’s feeling as confident as ever.
The 29-year-old plans to push his run to three on the bounce at ONE Fight Night 26. But simply winning doesn’t excite him; he wants to do it in highlight-reel fashion against Nakatani.
“I have several scenarios in mind. I could go for a submission or a knockout with my punches. Whether it’s by decision or finish, I’m prepared for anything. If there’s a chance, I’ll aim for the finish – I don’t want to leave it up to the judges,” Wakamatsu said.
“Winning an uninteresting decision doesn’t mean much to me. From the first second to the last, I’ll be looking for a finish, as always. I also want to show how much I’ve evolved, especially over my last two fights.”
