Hiroyuki Tetsuka will look to become undeniable at ONE 168: Denver. On Friday, September 6, the “Japanese Beast” goes toe-to-toe against Isi Fitikefu in a welterweight contender’s matchup. With five consecutive finishes to his credit, Tetsuka is ready to push that streak to six to become the next ONE Championship welterweight challenger.
“In terms of MMA, my striking, takedowns, and submissions are working together more smoothly now. I feel my MMA-specific skills have really improved. I’m confident I won’t lose to anyone in MMA,” Tetsuka told ONE.
Tetsuka is preparing for a stiff challenge from Fitikefu. The 34-year-old sees the matchup as being even across several variables, but he thinks the difference will be his experience inside the Circle. With that difference, Tetsuka is eyeing a key win inside the Ball Arena.
“We’re about the same height. His fighting style is quite similar to my previous style. He’s good at back chokes on the ground, but he also comes in hard with stand-up striking. He uses his physicality and explosive power. He’s physically strong, probably because he used to be a rugby player. He’s athletic and has refined his grappling and striking skills. However, I think I have more experience and a wider range of techniques. I want to show the difference in our experience and skill set,” the Japanese star remarked.
The “Japanese Beast” did not make a clear prediction for the match, as he is open to finishing the fight in any manner. However, should Fitikefu prove too tough, he is prepared to go the full three rounds. Either way, Tetsuka will rely on his adaptability on September 6.
“There are many ways [to win]. I could land a counter and knock him out or take him down and pound him out. He’s only lost by decision once and has never been finished. I plan to give him his first finish loss, but I usually adapt to the flow of the fight. There are really many ways I could win,” Tetsuka stated.
Should Tetsuka get his hand raised, he is not banking on an immediate title shot. ONE Welterweight MMA World Champion Christian Lee is returning, but he will defend the ONE Lightweight MMA World Title at ONE 169: Atlanta first. Tetsuka, knowing this, is open to the possibility of an interim title.
“If I get six consecutive finishes, I believe I should be in line for a title shot. Of course, I understand that the promotion makes these decisions, but I certainly hope for it. However, Christian has a lightweight title fight in Atlanta in November, so the welterweight division might be stagnant for a while. I’d be happy if they could set up an interim title fight,” the 34-year-old said.
Should an interim title be in order, the Japanese star already has two possible opponents in mind. Tetsuka only wants to compete against the division’s best. No matter what comes next, the 34-year-old wants his chance to prove he is the best in the world.
“If not Christian, then maybe the former champion Zebaztian Kadestam or Roberto Soldic. They’re both very strong fighters,” Tetsuka said.
ONE 168: Denver emanates from the Ball Arena on Friday, September 6. The event airs live on Prime Video at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Remaining tickets are on sale via Ticketmaster.
