Tenshin Nasukawa has achieved a significant milestone in his boxing career by clinching his first title after a commanding performance against Gerwin Asilo, winning by a unanimous decision over 10 rounds. This victory marks an important step for the 24-year-old Japanese boxer, highlighting his transition from kickboxing to professional boxing.
In what was a dominant display, Nasukawa managed to control the fight almost entirely, completing the full 10 rounds for the first time in his career. The bout featured a notable moment in the ninth round when Nasukawa registered a knockdown against Asilo.
The judges’ scorecards reflected Nasukawa’s superiority, with Surat Soikrachang and Kazutoshi Yoshida scoring the match 98-91 in favor of Nasukawa, while Edward Ligas recorded a score of 97-92. This victory elevates Nasukawa’s record to 5-0 (2 KOs) and sees him claim the WBO Asia Pacific bantamweight title, a prestigious achievement in his burgeoning career.
Reflecting on his journey, it’s been four years since the southpaw faced the legendary Floyd Mayweather Jr. in an exhibition match that ended in a swift defeat. Since then, Nasukawa has shifted his focus to professional boxing, and his progress has been nothing short of impressive. Among his five victories, this match against the previously undefeated Asilo, who entered with a record of 9-0 (4 KOs), stood out.
Throughout the fight, Asilo showcased his talent, landing solid straight right hands from his orthodox stance. However, he struggled to maintain the necessary pressure to disrupt Nasukawa’s rhythm at the Ariake Arena. Notably, Nasukawa appeared unfazed by Asilo’s power, confidently standing in the pocket to deliver his own shots.
The pivotal moment of the fight occurred in the ninth round when Nasukawa landed a left hand to the body, leading to the only knockdown of the match. Upon closer examination, the incident resembled more of a slip by Asilo, who quickly got back on his feet and expressed his dissatisfaction to the referee. Despite this setback, Nasukawa ramped up the pressure but was unsuccessful in securing a stoppage.
In the final round, Nasukawa sustained a cut above his left eye after an accidental clash of heads during a clinch. Nevertheless, he continued to unleash a flurry of combinations without letting the injury deter his performance.
Post-fight, Nasukawa expressed his gratitude and humorously remarked, “I successfully got this championship belt around my waist, and I thank my opponent for fighting me tonight. But what about my face? I got injured for the first time in my career. I am a bit concerned because I’m known for a cute face. I really wanted to knock out my opponent but I couldn’t do that. But this was a decisive win, and I showed you guys I can box for 10 rounds, so it was okay.”
Nasukawa’s victory not only adds a title to his credentials but also solidifies his status as a growing force in the boxing world, demonstrating both skill and resilience in the ring.
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