June 24, 2009
TOKYO, JAPAN
Japanese top ranked lightweight Yoshitaka Kato (17-2-1, 5 KOs), 135, a short and tough John Brown stylist, eked out a majority decision (78-75, 77-75 and 77-77) over JBC#8 Kazuyoshi Kumano (22-8, 5 KOs), 135, over eight give-and-take rounds on Wednesday in Tokyo, Japan. Kato displayed his trademark left hooks to take the initiative in the first half, almost stunning the taller and durable Kumano in the fourth. Katofs lack of defense made him a stationary target of Kumanofs retaliation in later rounds. Kato wishes to avenge his previous defeat by Ryuji Migaki, current national 135-pound champ, in a rematch with his belt at stake, but had better improve his defensive skills.
Promoter: Kadoebi Jewel Promotions.
(6-24-09)