Japanese mixed martial arts talent Yuya “Little Piranha” Wakamatsu is ready to bounce back from a painful defeat in his backyard when he returns at ONE: DAWN OF HEROES on Friday, 2 August.
The Tribe Tokyo MMA representative pointed to his loss against Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson on 31 March as a turning point in his career, ahead of his showdown against Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio in Manila, Philippines.
“It was in Japan, so a lot was expected of me, and I was a bit scared that I’d lose quickly,” he said. “That was the scariest thing for me. I wanted to win and leave a statement.”
Wakamatsu admitted that he felt the pressure, but the second-round submission defeat made him realize that he can compete against the world’s best talents in ONE Championship.
With pride in his voice, the Pancrase Flyweight Tournament Champion added that it also gave him a new level of confidence – something he will unleash this coming Friday.
“Right after the match, I realized that I can compete on a world-class level, and I know it’s not an easy world,” the Kagoshima native said.
“I noticed that what I’ve been doing has raised me to a higher level all around – my conditioning, mental strength, and skills have given me confidence.”
“I had no idea if I could compete at a world-class level before, but [that bout] gave me the confidence to realize I could.”
Should he defeat “Gravity” in the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix reserve match in Manila, Philippines, Wakamatsu will be on the waiting line for the tournament final should an athlete withdraw due to unforeseen circumstances.
The chance of a return in the tournament final excites him, but he promised the fans that they will be in for an even more exciting evening inside the Mall of Asia Arena.
Wakamatsu certainly has firepower in his fists with nine of his 10 victories coming by way of knockout.
“The fans can expect to see what I’m known for – knockout finishes. I want to show them not just my hands, but my kicks, takedowns, and other techniques.”
“I need a win to stay alive. I’ve absorbed everything from my losses and have become stronger. I want to show everyone a strong comeback.”
Astro Awani
Sat Jul 27 2019
Wakamatsu certainly has firepower in his fists with nine of his 10 victories coming by way of knockout. - Instagram pic/@yw0209c4/ONE
Indonesia's free meals plan in the spotlight as Prabowo readies for office
Prabowo calls the programme one of the main drivers of economic growth, eventually set to add an estimated 2.5 million jobs.
Astro AWANI's revamped English news website, AWANI International, launches on Oct 21
Astro AWANI's revamped English platform delivers in-depth global news and expert analysis to keep you informed on key developments.
Israeli strikes kill 33 people in Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, medics say
Residents of Jabalia said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts.
Liam Payne's ex-partner calls for media restraint after 'painful' death
Cheryl Tweedy used her statement to urge the media to remember they had a seven-year-old son, Bear, who could read the reports.
Analysts: Indonesia's strong MoF leadership team to boost investor confidence
Sri Mulyani Indrawati as head of Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is expected to instil confidence among investors.
Biden offers both a carrot and a stick to Israel as his term nears an end
Israel has frequently resisted US advice and has caused political difficulties for the Biden administration.
Putin says BRICS will generate most of global economic growth
Russian President Vladimir Putin will host a summit of the group in the city of Kazan on Oct. 22-24.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.
Minimum wage to increase to RM1,700 effective Feb 1, 2025
The Progressive Wage Policy would be fully enforced next year with an allocation of RM200 million, benefiting 50,000 workers.
Bursa Malaysia ends higher on Budget 2025 optimism
The benchmark index, which opened 1.85 points higher at 1,643.29, moved between 1,641.71 and 1,649.31 throughout the trading session.
Five important aspects relating to people’s lives in Budget 2025 - PM
The focus is on driving the MADANI Economy, speeding reforms, cutting red tape, raising wages, and tackling the cost of living.