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Japanese MMA legend and former ONE lightweight world champion Shinya Aoki has been fighting in a young man's sport for close to 20 years. Still, the legendary 'Tobikan Judan' is not intent on stopping just yet. On November 19, he will face a very tough opponent in Saygid Izagakhmaev.
Izagakhmaev entered the ONE lightweight division this year with much fan interest as he carries the flag of his team and his mentor, the great Khabib Nurmagomedov. After dismantling James Nakashima in his promotional debut, Izagakhmaev called out a few fighters, most notably Aoki.
Now that the fight has been made official, the Russian wrestling machine has some choice words for the Japanese legend. In an interview with ONE Championship, Izagakhmaev said:
“I am happy to fight Shinya Aoki. Aoki is a legend in our sport. Back when I was in high school, I used to watch him fight. But with all due respect, I will retire him.”
During ONE's press conference for ONE 163, Shinya Aoki was made aware of Izagakhmaev's statement. In response, 'Tobikan Judan' said:
"I know I’m facing so tough opponent. But I know this is something I have to do. That is my position right now. I will do my best. He [Izagakhmaev] will send me retirement? It’s not your business actually."
Simple, direct and stern words from the stone-cold legend. Ultimately, it's a fighter's choice when his war is over and it's time to hang up his armor for good. Aoki has faced all kinds of great fighters throughout the years and has suffered devastating losses that would make anyone quit the sport for good. Still, the Japanese icon is willing to show up come fight day and we're all thankful for it.
Shinya Aoki addresses retirement talks
In the same press conference, Shinya Aoki set the record straight about rumors of him retiring from the sport. The Japanese grappling genius said:
"I’m 39 years old now and six months to become 40 years old. When I see the number of my age, I’m in the final countdown. I understand that I hear about this countdown. But I’m the one who decides [when to retire]. When I quit, I will make my own decisions. When I fight, I will fight. Do or retire, I will decide. I believe I deserve to decide these kinds of things. So, I will decide when I need to."
Like a true samurai warrior, Aoki takes the fate of his career in his hands and his hands alone. He won't stop when he's hurt or tired, he'll stop when he's done. Whether or not he's done or when that time will be, it's solely up to him – as it should be.
