Kenshiro Teraji vs Israel Gonzalez

This is not a soft touch for Kenshiro Teraji, but it is a fight he should win if he is still the fighter I think he is. Moving up to super-flyweight to chase another world title against a seasoned Mexican like Israel Gonzalez shows the Japanese fighters' desire. Gonzalez has been in with top operators; he knows the tricks, and he will not freeze under the lights in Tokyo.

Teraji is the classier craftsman. He has that lovely Japanese sharpness: straight punches, tidy feet, quick resets, and he does not waste much. He is not a brawler, but there is spite in his work when he gets a man lined up.

 Gonzalez is tougher than old boot leather, awkward, experienced, and happy to make rounds scruffy. He will try to drag Teraji into exchanges, nick moments, and test whether the extra weight affects the timing.

The nuts and bolts favour Teraji. His jab and right hand should get there first, especially when Gonzalez squares up coming forward. The danger for Teraji is standing too long after landing, because Gonzalez will punch with him and make it a chest-to-chest grind if allowed.

I see Gonzalez giving him real trouble early, but Teraji’s accuracy and footwork will take over. Teraji wins by decision.