Brian Norman Jr. vs. Jin Sasaki: Press Conference Quotes and Fight Prediction

Brian Norman Jr. (27-0, 21 KOs, 2 NCs) will soon defend his WBO welterweight world title against Jin Sasaki (19-1-1, 17 KOs).

Their bout headlines an Ohashi Promotions card at the Ota-City General Gymnasium in Tokyo, Japan. Boxing fans in the country can catch the action live on Lemino. Those in the United States can do so with ESPN+. Norman will attempt to successfully defend his title for a second time. Initially an interim titleholder following his win over Giovani Santillan, he was promoted to full titlist after Terence Crawford moved up to super welterweight.

Ahead of their June 19 clash, Norman and Sasaki spoke at a press conference. Below is some of what was said.

Brian Norman Jr. vs. Jin Sasaki Press Conference Quotes

Brian Norman Jr.

“I look out here and I see the fanbase that he has,” said Norman. “I see all the love he has received, and I respect that he’s doing his job. Now it’s time for me to do the job that I’m supposed to do as the WBO welterweight world champion.”

“Confidence is key. With Jin Sasaki saying he’s only 80 percent confident, I mean, that’s on him. But, also, he says he wants to overcome that. I respect him for being a man and actually saying that out loud and being real with everyone and himself. With me, I come to the ring every time a million percent confident and ready to go. I know the work I put in. I know the time I put in. This is not just this year. This is not just last year. This is year after year, day after day, second after second. This is what I live for. This is what I love to do.”

Jin Sasaki

Comments from Sasaki were not included in the press conference video or the news release sent out by Top Rank. As a result, they have been omitted in this article.

Fight Prediction

Norman is a favourite going into this fight and it is not hard to see why. The American’s last two bouts were dominant beatdowns. While Sasaki is a power puncher, he is coming off of a fight in which he had to go the distance. While Norman will have to be wary of his opponent’s power, he possesses the skill set that will allow him to do so. Expect him to eventually break down Sasaki and get the stoppage win sometime before round eight.

Press Conference Highlights

For the press conference highlights, click here or the play button below. Video courtesy of Top Rank.