“I want to make sure I don’t lose” - Masaaki Noiri relishes chance to lead Japanese contingent at massive ONE 173

ONE 173 features a strong Japanese contingent, led by interim ONE featherweight kickboxing world champion Masaaki Noiri.

With several hometown heroes looking to deliver spectacular performances, Noiri understands the weight of responsibility that comes with headlining such a massive event in front of his compatriots.

The 32-year-old striker will look to unify the 155-pound belts against featherweight kickboxing king Superbon in the curtain closer of the massive martial arts spectacle set to go down on November 16 at the Ariake Arena.

Speaking to ONE Championship, Noiri expressed his determination to lead by example at the historic Tokyo event:

"Since this is a Japan event, I believe all the Japanese fighters must win. And since I'm headlining, I want to make sure I don't lose to anyone, not only in the result but also in how exciting the fight is.”

With Noiri at the forefront, Japan’s revered Team Vasileus will be represented, as Takeru Segawa and Yuki Yoza also have high-profile matches lined up. They will take on Denis Puric and Superlek Kiatmoo9, respectively.

Two more Japanese fighters will also vie for 26 pounds of gold, as Yuya Wakamatsu will look to defend his flyweight MMA throne against Joshua Pacio. Nadaka will also seek to become the inaugural ONE atomweight Muay Thai world champion against Numsurin Chor Ketwina.

Elsewhere, Japanese warriors Kana Morimoto, Rukiya Anpo, Hiroki Akimoto, and Itsuki Hirata are also set to compete in the stacked card.

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Masaaki Noiri warns old rival Rukiya Anpo that he's in the big leagues now

ONE newcomer Rukiya Anpo stole the show during the ONE 173 Tokyo press conference with his brash proclamations and intimidating aura.

The Japanese striker boldly claimed that he joined ONE to set a rematch with Masaaki Noiri and avenge that previous loss.

Asked about his thoughts on Anpo's arrival, the interim featherweight kickboxing world champion told ONE:

"I wish him a warm welcome to ONE. But this stage isn't that easy."

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