Brian Norman Jr. is confident as he prepares to defend his WBO welterweight title against Jin Sasaki on June 19 at the Ota City General Gymnasium in Tokyo, Japan. The undefeated 24-year-old champion will make his second title defense in what promises to be a high-stakes match.
Norman, who holds a record of 27 wins with no losses and 21 knockouts, last fought in March in Las Vegas. There, he successfully defended his belt by defeating Derrieck Cuevas with a third-round technical knockout. Originally from Decatur, Georgia, Norman won the interim title after stopping Giovani Santillan in the 10th round in San Diego.
His challenger, 23-year-old Jin Sasaki, enters the fight with a record of 19 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw, including 17 knockouts. Sasaki is riding a seven-fight winning streak and is attempting to claim one of boxing’s four major titles for the first time.
Norman expressed pride in representing the global nature of his sport. “I am the true definition of a ‘world’ champion,” he said. “That’s what being a champion is about. I’m honored to showcase my talents all across the world, no matter the location or terrain.”
He added that training routines do not change despite fighting abroad. “There really hasn’t been any adjustment required – training is training no matter the location. I’ve been doing this all my life. You don’t have to change how you walk just because you’re in another country… This camp has been amazing. I fought three months ago, so I came into this camp already sharp and in shape. I’d love to stay this active and be a true champion for the people.”
Norman confidently anticipated Sasaki’s challenge but remained firm in his belief that he will keep his title. “I know Sasaki’s habits, techniques and anything he wants to do. There’s nothing he can do to surprise me besides grow a third arm. I’m expecting him to fight harder than he ever has before because of the magnitude of this fight, but the end result will still be the same. I came with my belt and I’m leaving with my belt.”
He emphasized the role of fans in motivating him, regardless of where he fights. “I don’t care where I fight or who I fight, the fans always motivate me to go 10 times harder. They’re the reason I train so hard. You will not be disappointed at all, even if it’s over quickly.”
Since becoming champion, Norman said his greatest growth has been mental. “My main improvement since becoming champion has been my mentality, and I will keep improving on it. That’s what separates the goods from the greats. I truly believe I am unstoppable and will go down in history as ‘that’ guy.”
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