July 2, 2001
July 2, 2001
HIROSHIMA, JAPAN-Fast-moving lefty Masakazu Satake(right photo), 138.75, kept his OPBF super-light title as he proved too quick and sharp for the top contender Singtong Nonthachai, 139.75, and finally sank him with a well-timed southpaw right hook at 2:12 of the 7th round.
Satake was in command in all rounds except in the 4th by utilizing his superior speed on hand and foot. The Japanese champ caught the durable Thailander with a wicked right hook following a good one-two combo, dropping him flat on the deck. Singtong barely beat the count but lost his balance only to be counted out by Thai referee Ukrid Sarasas.
Scored after the 6th: Ukrid Sarasas (Thailand), Kenjiro Makizumi (Japan) and Kazumasa Kuwata (Japan), all 59-56 for Satake, a bright speedster, 12-2-4, 6 KOs. Singtong fell to 20-4, 9 KOs.
This victory confirmed Satakefs fight against Korean Jongjin Noh on an undercard supporting the WBA heavyweight title go between Evander Holyfield and John Ruiz in Beijing, China, on August 5.
Satake jubilantly said, gI will show a good performance before the Chinese crowd and Mr. Don King as well so that I will get a world title shot in the near future.h
Promoter: Akashi Promotions in association with Sankyo Gym.
Matchmaker: Joe Koizumi.
(7-2-01)