The Japanese side Nakatani wants to live the American dream

Junto Nakatani will try to follow in the footsteps of his compatriot Naoya Inoue, who completed the transition from Japan to make himself known in the United States, when he risks the World Boxing Organization (WBO) belt, the 112-pound version , against the Puerto Rican Angel “Titus” Acosta.

For Nakatani, he will represent the first starting defender and will also make his debut in the American market.

“I wanted to live the American dream“Nakatani said through an interpreter from Tucson, Arizona.”It would be a dream to be on the same level as Inoue”.

The 23-year-old boxer made his first 21 fights in Japan and in fact the original plan was for Acosta to travel east for the event. However, restrictions on entering and leaving the country to contain the spread of COVID-19 virus forced some delays. Nakatani indicated that this made training difficult, but said he was ready for Acosta’s challenge.

“In Japan they established protocols that we all had to follow. It was difficult to do the glove sessions with the members of my boxing squad, but I understand that everything necessary was done for the fight against Acosta.“, He indicated.

He also acknowledged that the Puerto Rican will be a formidable test.

“I watched his fight against (Kosei) Tanaka, so I have a good idea of ​​what he will bring. He will basically put pressure on me, but this is a big event that will help me develop my name as a fighter,” he said.

In weight both gladiators

Both Acosta and Nakatani scored £ 112 during the official weigh-in of event participants at Casino de el Sol.

“I feel comfortable and strong. It’s not that hard, although one always works to do the weight, this time I didn’t have to sacrifice myself during the last days in front of the heavy. When he fights at 105 pounds, the day before he barely ate to lose that missing pound. Ahroa no. I was able to eat well every day, which makes a big difference, “said Acosta.