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Koji Oishi looking for ‘results’ in Manila rematch

Koji Oishi (left) and Honorio Banario
Koji Oishi (left) and Honorio Banario

PHILIPPINES (TR) – Japan’s Koji Oishi and Honorio Banario on Thursday both made weight one day before their highly anticipated mixed martial arts featherweight clash that headlines the ONE FC (Fighting Championship) “Moment of Truth” at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The pair had previously squared off on May 31, with underdog Oishi dropping then champion Banario, a native of the Philippines, with a quick right early in the second round.

After the weigh-in on Thursday at the Resorts World Manila mall, the 36-year-old Oishi, who checked in at 65.7 kilograms, downplayed any suggestion that the blow was a “lucky punch,” as critics have said.

“I only look at the results,” said the Japanese fighter. “Even if people call it a ‘lucky punch’ it doesn’t matter to me.”

As in May, Oishi on Friday will once again face thousands of screaming fans on Bonario’s home turf. Yet the champion remains unfazed.

“I really appreciate Bonario for being a great challenger and all the fans in the Philippines,” he said. “I will bring [the belt] back to Japan.”