Yuki Yoza’s arrival in ONE Championship is more than just a debut—it’s a statement. With an impressive resume, elite training partners, and an unbreakable mindset, the Japanese striker is ready to test himself against the best
Whether you’re a long-time fan of kickboxing or just discovering the sport, May 23 at ONE Friday Fights 109 is a date you don’t want to miss.
Because when Yoza steps into Lumpinee Stadium, he’s not just fighting to win—he’s fighting to become unforgettable.
As Yuki Yoza steps into the global spotlight, he carries with him the lessons of two legends, the hopes of a nation, and the determination of a warrior.
His gratitude toward Takeru and Masaaki Noiri is a testament to the value of mentorship in combat sports.
With their guidance and his own hard work, Yoza is primed to become one of Japan’s next big stars in ONE Championship.
“I’m thankful every day for their support,” Yoza concluded. “Now, it’s time to show the world what I’ve learned.”
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Table of Contents
Yuki Yoza: The Japanese Kickboxing Star Set to Shine in ONE Championship
Yuki Yoza’s journey to ONE Championship isn’t the story of a fighter chasing fame—it’s the natural progression of a man who always believed in his path.1
Speaking to the South China Morning Post, the Japanese kickboxing sensation emphasized that signing with the global promotion wasn’t a matter of wishful thinking but rather fulfilling an inevitable destiny.
“It’s not something I was wishing for, it was more something like I was on my way to grabbing this dream. So it’s natural for me to get this dream.”
That quiet confidence speaks volumes about who Yoza is: a fighter who believes not just in hard work, but in alignment between preparation and opportunity.
The Debut That Has Fans Buzzing
The countdown has begun for one of the most anticipated debuts in kickboxing.
Yuki Yoza will step into the famed Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok on May 23, facing undefeated Russian powerhouse Elbrus Osmanov in a bantamweight kickboxing showdown at ONE Friday Fights 109.
Lumpinee Stadium is no ordinary venue—it’s a sacred battleground where legends are made, and Yoza is ready to leave his mark. Against Osmanov, he faces a high-stakes test of power, precision, and poise.
A Decorated Background in K-1
Before joining ONE Championship, Yoza carved out a dominant run in K-1 Kickboxing, the elite Japanese organization known for shaping some of the greatest strikers in history.
In 2023, Yoza claimed the K-1 Lightweight Championship, cementing his place among Japan’s most feared competitors.
At just 27, he had already achieved what many fighters spend a lifetime chasing. Yet, instead of resting on his laurels, Yoza made the bold choice to relinquish his title and challenge himself on the biggest stage in the world—ONE Championship.
The ONE Connection Was Already in His Corner
Though he hasn’t competed under the ONE banner yet, Yoza is no stranger to the promotion.
A key member of Team Vasileus in Tokyo, Yoza trains alongside some of the most elite kickboxers in the world, including Masaaki Noiri, the ONE interim featherweight kickboxing world champion, and Takeru Segawa, the legendary three-division K-1 champion.
Yoza was in Noiri’s corner when the latter delivered a jaw-dropping, leg-snapping TKO over Shakir Al-Tekreeti at ONE 170 in Bangkok. It was a reminder that Team Vasileus fighters come prepared—and dangerous.
Yuki Yoza: Style and Substance
Yoza brings a refined yet aggressive style to the ring. His movement is slick, his timing impeccable, and his finishing instincts are razor-sharp.2
With a reputation for clinical precision and cerebral striking, he’s more than just a brawler—he’s a tactician.
Where many fighters rely solely on speed or power, Yoza seamlessly blends both with technical mastery. His low kicks cripple, his counter punches sting, and his ring IQ rivals some of the sport’s greats.
Elbrus Osmanov is no stepping stone. The undefeated Russian brawler comes into the match with firepower and momentum. Known for his forward pressure and knockout ability, Osmanov will look to test Yoza’s composure and defensive prowess early.
For Yoza, this isn’t just a debut—it’s a proving ground. A win over Osmanov sends an immediate message to the bantamweight division: the new blood is ready for war.
Pressure is a Privilege
While most fighters experience nerves heading into such a big debut, Yoza sees the spotlight as a privilege.
This mindset—viewing pressure as an opportunity rather than a burden—is one of the intangible qualities that separates champions from contenders.
He isn’t stepping into the ring to “see how he performs.” He’s stepping in expecting victory. That mentality, forged from years of training and tested in K-1’s crucible, is what he believes will make the difference.
Following in the Footsteps of Legends
Yoza’s transition mirrors that of fellow Team Vasileus warrior Takeru Segawa, who also crossed over into ONE from K-1. Like Takeru, Yoza aims not only to win but to elevate the sport of kickboxing through international exposure and high-level competition.
Japanese fighters have long held a revered place in the striking arts. From Masato to Buakaw’s rivalries in K-1, to Takeru’s dominance, and now Yoza’s rise, the tradition continues. He’s carrying a national legacy, and he’s well aware of the responsibility that comes with it.
The Global Kickboxing Renaissance
ONE Championship has become a hub for the world’s best kickboxers, featuring icons like Superbon, Regian Eersel, and Jonathan Di Bella. By entering this shark tank, Yoza is challenging himself against the cream of the crop.
His signing is a sign of the times—top-tier athletes now view ONE as the gold standard in kickboxing.
And with a global broadcast reach and massive exposure in Asia, ONE is giving fighters like Yoza the platform they deserve.
Yuki Yoza: Building a Championship Path
While May 23 is just the beginning, Yoza’s goals are far from short-term. He has his sights set on climbing the bantamweight ladder and eventually capturing ONE gold.3
With the division stacked with names like Hiroki Akimoto, Petchtanong Petchfergus, and Zhang Chenglong, Yoza will need to navigate some seriously dangerous waters.
But he’s used to the grind. He didn’t reach K-1 glory overnight, and he doesn’t expect a shortcut in ONE. What he does expect is to earn his place—one fight at a time.
Though still new to international audiences, Yoza has already cultivated a loyal fan base in Japan. His blend of charisma, humility, and laser-focused discipline has made him a role model for aspiring fighters.
Now, with the world watching, he has the chance to expand that fan base globally. His performances—if they mirror his K-1 dominance—could turn him into a breakout star not just in ONE, but across the combat sports world.
Beyond the Ring: A New Era for Japanese Martial Arts
Yoza’s emergence is symbolic of a broader resurgence in Japanese combat sports. With ONE hosting regular events in Bangkok and exploring more shows in Japan, fighters like Yoza are perfectly positioned to bridge traditional Japanese martial arts culture with the global MMA and kickboxing landscape.
He represents a new generation—one that respects the past but isn’t afraid to innovate and globalize. With his polished skill set and international mindset, Yoza may well become an ambassador for the next evolution of Japanese striking.
As the date draws near, the combat sports world is beginning to buzz. Yuki Yoza vs. Elbrus Osmanov isn’t just another match on the card—it’s a clash of two rising titans with everything to prove.
For Yoza, it’s the culmination of years of dedication, countless hours in the gym, and an unshakable belief that he belongs on the world’s biggest stage. For fans, it’s the chance to witness the birth of what could be the next great era in kickboxing.
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Yuki Yoza Grateful for Takeru and Masaaki Noiri’s Guidance
Japan has a proud and storied history in martial arts, and its new generation of athletes continues to uphold that legacy with pride.
One such rising star is Yuki Yoza, a talented striker with a reputation for precision and discipline.
With his promotional debut just around the corner at ONE Friday Fights 109, Yoza is not only preparing physically but mentally as well.
At the core of his preparation is a deep gratitude for two of Japan’s most respected fighters — Takeru Segawa and Masaaki Noiri.
The Road to ONE Championship
Yuki Yoza’s journey to ONE Championship has been marked by dedication and calculated decisions. Known in Japan for his poise and technical skills in kickboxing, Yoza’s ascent through the ranks has not gone unnoticed.
Joining ONE Championship is a significant leap in his career, placing him among the elite strikers from across the world.
It’s a big stage, and Yoza knows the importance of seizing the opportunity. The upcoming bout at ONE Friday Fights 109 represents more than just a debut — it’s a statement.
It signals the arrival of another elite Japanese talent into the global spotlight, carrying the hopes of a nation eager to see its fighters shine.
The Influence of Martial Arts Mentors
In an exclusive interview with the South China Morning Post, Yoza opened up about the figures who have helped shape his mindset and fighting style — particularly Takeru and Noiri, both legends in their own right.
“It’s good to have those two in the team, as well,” Yoza said. “I’ve been getting a lot of inspiration from Takeru and Noiri.”
This isn’t just a passing acknowledgment — it reflects the deeper mentorship and camaraderie shared among Japan’s top fighters.
For Yoza, training alongside these two veterans is a daily masterclass in what it takes to succeed at the highest levels.
Yuki Yoza: Training With Takeru
A Spark of Fire
Takeru Segawa, widely known as simply Takeru, is a three-division K-1 world champion and a household name in Japanese kickboxing.
His aggressive style, unmatched endurance, and warrior spirit have earned him fans around the world. For Yoza, having Takeru in his corner has provided more than just tactical advice — it has reignited his passion and intensity.
Takeru’s presence in the gym has been instrumental. Watching how the veteran prepares, pushes himself, and overcomes adversity has been a valuable lesson for Yoza.
“His mindset is next-level,” Yoza shared. “Even when he’s tired, he keeps pushing. That mentality rubs off on everyone around him.”
The Precision of Masaaki Noiri
If Takeru is the embodiment of fire and aggression, Masaaki Noiri represents cold precision and tactical excellence.
A former K-1 Super Lightweight Champion, Noiri’s style is sharp, calculated, and deadly effective. Yoza considers him one of the most intelligent strikers in the game.
“Noiri sees things others don’t,” Yoza said. “He’s taught me how to break down opponents, how to stay calm and composed in every situation.”
Under Noiri’s guidance, Yoza has refined his defensive awareness, footwork, and ability to read an opponent’s rhythm — all critical skills as he transitions to the ONE circle.
Crafting a Complete Fighter
The fusion of Takeru’s aggression and Noiri’s precision has helped Yoza evolve into a more complete fighter.
With their contrasting styles and shared experience at the highest levels of the sport, both mentors offer a unique and complementary influence on Yoza’s development.
“From Takeru, I get the fire. From Noiri, I get the focus,” he explained. “Together, they’ve helped me find balance in my style.”
In many ways, Yoza is like a sponge — absorbing everything he can from those around him. He has embraced the opportunity to learn from two of the very best, recognizing that success in ONE Championship will demand nothing less than his full potential.
Representing Japan with Pride
- While Yoza’s personal ambitions are clear, he also feels the weight of national pride.
- Japanese fighters have long had a storied relationship with martial arts, and ONE Championship has seen a resurgence in talent from the country. From Shinya Aoki to Itsuki Hirata, Japan’s influence is once again growing.
- “I want to represent Japan with honor,” Yoza stated. “This is about more than just me — it’s about showing the world that Japanese fighters are still among the best.”
- As he prepares to step onto the global stage, Yoza hopes to carry forward the values of discipline, respect, and technical excellence that define Japanese martial arts.
- Beyond the physical preparation, Yoza has also focused heavily on the mental aspects of the fight. This is where his mentors have provided some of their most valuable insights.
- Both Takeru and Noiri are known for their ability to stay calm under pressure and mentally reset after setbacks.
- “They’ve taught me how to control my emotions — to never let fear or doubt creep in,” Yoza explained. “Mental toughness is what separates champions from contenders.”
- With that in mind, Yoza has worked closely with sports psychologists and visualization techniques to ensure he walks into his ONE debut with clarity and confidence.
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