Kazuto Ioka vs. Fernando Martínez: Pre-Fight Quotes and Fight Prediction

Kazuto Ioka (31-2-1, 16 KOs) and Fernando Martínez (16-0, 9 KOs) will soon clash in a highly anticipated super flyweight unification.

The two men headline a Shisei Promotions card at the Kokugikan Arena in Tokyo, Japan. Fight fans in Japan can catch the action live on ABEMA. Those outside Japan must use a VPN to watch the bout on ABEMA. ESPN KNOCKOUT on Disney+ will also be carrying the action for those in Latin America.

The fight will see Ioka’s WBA title and Martínez’s IBF belt at stake. Ahead of their unification bout on July 7, Big Fight Weekend looks at what both men have had to say about their fight.

Kazuto Ioka vs. Fernando Martínez Quotes

Kazuto Ioka

“Tomorrow I will show overwhelming strength and unify the title. That’s all,” said Ioka in Japanese after the official weigh-in.

Read more: Ioka Claims Decision Win Over Franco

“What comes next is more important than past experience. I want to take on the next challenge with a stronger mindset.”

Fernando Martínez

“I want to make history,” said Martínez in Spanish at a press conference days before leaving for Japan. “I believe Argentina deserves to have a unified champion, and we’re more focused and readier than ever. I have the right age and the right experience. These last three fights I had gave me a lot of experience. I am relaxed because we’ve had a terrific job with my team. I am only gearing up for the fight and feeling excited about it.”

Read more: Fernando Martínez Stunned IBF Champ Jerwin Ancajas Saturday

Fight Prediction

Ioka enters this contest with plenty of world title experience. He has been in more world title fights than Martínez has professional bouts (even if one were to exclude all secondary title fights). That being said, Martínez should be a game opponent on Sunday. Expect a competitive affair that goes the distance. Ioka should have enough at age 35 to win this by unanimous decision.