July 30, 2005
TOKYO, JAPAN-Akihiko Honda of Teiken Promotions, Inc. announced a world twinbill at the Yokohama Arena, Yokohama City, Japan, on September 25. Newly crowned WBC bantam champ Hozumi Hasegawa (18-2, 5 KOs), a Japanese lefty, will put his belt on the line against the perennial top contender Diego Morales (35-2, 25 KOs), a Mexican southpaw and gEl Terribleh Erikfs brother, over twelve rounds. Hasegawa, making his first defense since dethroning Thai veteran Veeraphol Nakhornluang-Promotion this April, welcomes this mandatory defense, since he is willing to show his real power against the name challenger. Also, WBA 105-pound champ Yutaka Niida (18-1-3, 8 KOs), Japan, will face unbeaten Filipino Eriberto Gejon (21-0-1, 13 KOs) in a supporting 12-round title bout. Niida, making his third defense, will cope with the tall and lanky challenger. Unbeaten prospects Jorge Linares and Takahiro Ao, both managed by Honda, will appear on the undercard.
(7-30-05)