Mental warfare drives Yuki Yoza’s preparation for the biggest test of his career. The Japanese forward believes breaking Superlek’s legendary composure is the key to victory.
Yoza takes on ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion Superlek in a bantamweight kickboxing match at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri on Sunday, November 16 at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan. The 27-year-old product of Team Vasileus seeks revenge for his teammate Takeru after the Thai superstar systematically destroyed Segawa at ONE 165 earlier last year.
The former K-1 champion is coming off a 12-fight winning streak, including victories over Elbrus Osmanov and former bantamweight king Petchtanong Petchfergus. But Superlek represents a quantum leap in competitiveness with 139 career victories across the cream of Muay Thai and kickboxing.
Yoza has spent months studying the Thai icon’s patterns and tendencies. He recognizes the precision of Superlek’s right kicks and ability to dictate the pace under pressure. The champion’s resume includes victories over Rodtang Jitmuangnon, Jonathan Haggerty and Nabil Anane.
Instead of approaching combat with trepidation, Yoza designed his entire training camp around exploiting what he learned. His preparation included valuable experience emulating Superlek’s style while helping Takeru prepare for their first meeting.
“There are no weak fighters in ONE. Everyone has world-class skills and strong mental toughness. To be able to fight on this stage, against the best in the world, is truly the ultimate as a fighter,” he said.
“Superlek is one of the absolute top in ONE. To be honest, my previous opponent, Petchtanong, was actually a more difficult match for me – a more difficult style for me. I managed to take him down and beat him. That experience from the two fights will help me. So I don’t see any problem here.”
Yuki Yoza gains confidence through Superlek preparation
Earlier this year, Yuki Yoza played a crucial role in Takeru Segawa’s preparation. The experience transformed from teammate duty to invaluable exploration.
Yoza replicated Superlek’s movement patterns, kicking rhythm and attack angles during countless sparring sessions. The process forced him to internalize the champion’s strengths and weaknesses. That first-hand knowledge now fuels his confidence towards ONE 173.
The Japanese striker understands what this victory would mean for his championship aspirations. Defeating Superlek could catapult him directly into title contention against Jonathan Haggerty. But beyond personal glory, Yoza also carries the weight of national pride and teammate loyalty with him to Tokyo.
“I actually played the role of Superlek in sparring to help Takeru prepare. I copied his style closely, so I know in my mind and body what to do. That was a very valuable experience. I know his weaknesses, but also his strengths. I am confident,” he said.
“I don’t mind breaking legs. I don’t mind actually breaking legs. I want to break his spirit with my victory. I really do. The very best fighters have incredible mental strength. I want to break that strong spirit. I want to break it and show that moment to fans all over Japan.”
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