“I’m the current superstar in the fight world” Exclusive interview with Takeru

 
Takeru will finally be fighting on his dream stage on New Year’s Eve. “I will be the one to lead the Japanese fight industry after I fight in RIZIN FF”
—When did you receive this offer
I was told about the offer a little before my title defense on November 21. I would always watch the fights on NYE when I was a kid, and was especially the year when Masato fought Kid Yamamoto was outstanding. I have always wanted to fight on a big event on NYE so I was very happy to receive that offer. Fighting on NYE is always a great motivation for any fighter.
—There are many legendary fighters planned to fight on the card
I think it is amazing to be able to fight on the same card with the fighters I used to watch on TV. But I am the current superstar so I want everybody to watch me. I haven’t had a chance to watch my opponent’s fight yet, from what I hear, he is aggressive so I think it would be a recipe for an exciting fight.
—What exactly would you like to show as a K-1 fighter in the RIZIN ring
K-1 fights are always action packed, no dead time like when the fight goes to the ground in MMA. We are always exchanging and is simply entertaining even if you don’t know much about the sport. We are quick and you never know who is going down at any point, which makes an awesome fight to watch.
—Many of the fight that are scheduled are heavier weight classes
I believe fights are not about weight, it’s about heart. And I believe that I have a stronger heart than any fighter on the card. Yes, there are many big fighters, but I’m confident that I can put on the most exciting show, and confident that smaller fighters, K-1 fighters are more entertaining than the rest.
—What kind of message would you like to send to the fans through your fight
Fighting gave me a dream and changed my life significantly. I am here right now as a champion because I learned how to work hard and mature as a human through fighting. I want people to know that you can change like I did. I want to give people dreams and inspire them. I would be happy if they could feel a portion of what I want to show them, and I want people to like fighting by watching me.
—Your thoughts on fighting in RIZIN
I came all this way to become a star. There will be many people watching so I would like to win my fight in a spectacular fashion and leave a great impression on everybody’s mind. RIZIN is just be the beginning, starting next year, I will be the one leading the Japanese fight industry.