Seigo Yuri Akui and Taku Kuwahara, two of the best Japanese professional boxers currently, are set for an exciting rematch for the WBA flyweight title. Akui, 28, of Kurashiki, has an impressive professional record of 19 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw in 22 fights. His opponent, Kuwahara, is entering the fight with momentum, with a record of 13 wins and only 1 loss after defeating Wulan Tuolehazi last July.
These two fighters have history, with Akui picking up a 10th-round win when they previously fought a couple of years ago. Their upcoming showdown at the Tokyo Dome is expected to be another competitive and close contest, although Akui is the favorite to raise his hand once again at the final bell.
With a lot at stake and their first fight so close, both should bring their A-game and put on a show for the fans.
When and Where?
Monday, May 6, 4:00 am ET at the Tokyo Dome, JP
Ring walks time:
(Estimated) 5:30 am ET
Moneyline odds:
Seigo Yuri Akui 1.327
Taku Kuwahara 3.15
Where Can I Watch it?
ESPN+
Why Bet on Seigo Yuri Akui?
Seigo Yuri Akui has a clear path to victory in his next fight against Taku Kuwahara based on several key factors. First, Akui has far more professional experience, with 22 fights under his belt compared to just 14 for Kuwahara. That extensive experience has allowed Akui to hone his skills and become a very polished tactical boxer.
In particular, Akui possesses excellent footwork and defense. He is adept at using angles and lateral movement to avoid shots while, at the same time, putting himself in a prime position to counterpunch. In addition, his defense and ability to connect punches have been a hallmark of his career thus far.
Seigo also has significant power in his punches, especially his straight right hand. He has stopped opponents impressively with 19 KOs in his 22 wins. That kind of power could be the difference against Kuwahara, who has just 5 KOs in his 13 wins. If Akui can land his powerful right hand flush on Kuwahara’s chin, he could be lights out.
Finally, Akui has a mental advantage as he defeated Kuwahara before. He knows what to expect and already has a plan on how to beat Kuwahara, having stopped him in the 10th round of their first fight.
Why Bet on Taku Kuwahara?
Kuwahara has an excellent chance of defeating Akui and getting a rematch based on his boxing skills and physical attributes. At 29, he is in his physical prime and has shown excellent stamina in his previous fights, going the full 12 rounds against top competition.
His key advantages are his size and reach. Kuwahara stands 5′ 5“ with a reach of 64.6”, giving him a significant size advantage over the smaller Akui. He uses his long jab effectively to control distance and set up power punches. Kuwahara has also demonstrated impressive punching power with 13 knockouts in his 14 wins.
In addition, he is a smart and adaptable fighter. He sticks to his game plan and makes adjustments based on his opponent’s tendencies. This ring IQ has served him well against aggressive opponents in the past.
To win this fight, Taku needs to use his reach to prevent Akui from coming in, set up his jab, and look for counter-punching opportunities. If he can avoid brawls and exchange power punches with him, his size and technical skills give him a good chance to once again defeat his opponent. Kuwahara is coming off defeating Wulan Tuolehazi 9 months ago by 4th round KO.
Final Betting Analysis: Seigo Yuri Akui vs. Taku Kuwahara
With their previous fight ending in a TKO victory for Akui, he is expected to once again come out on top in the rematch. His experience, power punches, and pressure-fighting style match up well with this rival.
Kuwahara has improved since his last head-to-head and has racked up some good wins, but he hasn’t faced anyone like Akui. His chances lie in using his boxing skills to outbox his foe, but that will be hard to maintain for 12 rounds.
Finally, we have to predict that Seigo Yuri Akui will take the win by TKO, towards the eighth round. His relentless pressure and heavy hands will gradually wear Kuwahara down until the referee steps in to stop the fight.
Go for a victory for the champion at 1.327. If you bet $100 at such odds, you could get $32.7 for a total payout of $132.7
EN 
ES 
PT 
PT_BR