Nadaka Shifts Focus To Rifdean Title Defense After Win

Nadaka Yoshinari will have little time to savor his kickboxing debut victory.

The ONE Atomweight Muay Thai World Champion took a unanimous decision over Har Ling Om in the main event of ONE SAMURAI 3 at Yokohama Buntai on September 12, extending his unbeaten streak to 42 consecutive wins. Now he turns his attention back to Muay Thai, where he defends his title against Rifdean Masdor at ONE SAMURAI 4 in Tokyo's Ariake Arena on October 17, BJPenn.com reports.

Nadaka had hoped to break down Har Ling Om before stopping him late, but his opponent proved increasingly durable and defensive as the bout wore on. The result left the champion dissatisfied despite the win. "I was able to win, but I couldn't perform the way I had envisioned, so I am left with a lot of frustration," he said. "It made me realize I need to develop the ability to keep pressuring and finish an opponent who is focused on surviving."

Rifdean Defense Takes Priority Over Two-Sport Goals

The quick turnaround leaves no room for Nadaka to dwell on his kickboxing performance. He expects Rifdean to bring a completely different challenge next month. While the kickboxing debut opened the door to competing seriously in two disciplines, that possibility remains secondary to the immediate task ahead.

"My October fight is already set. I know that opponent will come at me with everything, so right now I am completely focused on beating him," Nadaka said. "After that, there may be different opportunities, but the central thing for me is always showing everything I am capable of."

ONE SAMURAI 4 takes place October 17 in Tokyo.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Nadaka already shifting focus to Rifdean ONE World Title defense after kickboxing win