WBO = World Boxing Organization super flyweight champion Kazuto Ioka will fight against Japanese players on the same day instead of the unification match with Philippine players on the 31st of this month, which was canceled due to the influence of the new coronavirus. Will be done.
WBO Super Flyweight Champion Ioka was planning a unified title match with IBF = International Boxing Federation Super Flyweight Champion Jerwin Ankahas of the Philippines on the 31st of this month in Ota Ward, Tokyo.
However, as a measure to prevent the spread of the new mutant virus "Omicron strain" of the new corona, the cancellation was announced on the 3rd of this month due to the suspension of new entry of foreigners in principle.
Shisei Gym, to which Ioka belongs, announced on the 16th that he will play a defense match on the 31st of this month when the unification of the throne was scheduled.
The opponent is Ryoji Fukunaga, who is 6th in the WBO world ranking, and the match will be held at the same venue as the canceled championship unification match.
For Ioka, this game will be the fourth defense of the super flyweight title.
Comment from champion Ioka and challenger Fukunaga
Champion Ioka and challenger Fukunaga each announced their comments through their gyms.
Of these, Ioka said, "It's a pity that we can't have a unified match in New Year's Eve, but once it's decided, I'll do my best to win and connect to the next match. Thank you for being able to play at such a time. Thank you for your support, Omisoka. "
In addition, Fukunaga, who decided to challenge the world title for the first time at the age of 35, commented, "I will finish it perfectly by New Year's Eve. I will spend my life and change my life."