May 9, 2002
KOKURA, JAPAN-Genki Ohnaka (11-2-1, 5 KOs), 106.5, surprisingly upset WBC #5 minimum Hiroshi Matsumoto (13-3-3, 5 KOs), 106, winning a split decision over 10 in Kokura, Japan.
Itfs an encounter of southpaws. Matsumoto kept boring in, while Ohnaka, Japanese #4 108-pounder, tried to counter with uppercuts. The 6th saw Ohnaka almost stun the prefight favorite with a solid southpaws left, which carried him to an upset victory.
Scored: 97-95 and 97-94 for Ohnaka, and 96-95 for Matsumoto. Ohnaka looked superior in physique, being taller by 4 inches.
Unranked but upcoming Kazuyoshi Niki (8-1, 2 KOs), 114.75, also astoundingly blasted out ex-IBF world 105-pound champ Nico Thomas (28-18-4, 18 KOs), 113.5, with a single overhand right at 3:02 of the opening canto.
Promoter: Kokura Takahashi Promotions.
(5-9-02)