Sage Northcutt is gearing up for an electrifying performance on Sunday, January 28, as he steps into the ONE 165 arena. His adversary for the night? None other than the formidable Japanese combat sports icon, Shinya Aoki.
The Challenge Ahead
Hailing from Sacramento, California, Northcutt faces a formidable challenge against the seasoned ‘Tobikan Judan.’ Aoki, with a career dating back to 2003, has consistently grappled with the best in the business, showcasing elite-level skills, particularly in his awe-inspiring submissions.
Aoki’s Timeless Prowess
Despite hitting the milestone of 40 last May, Aoki retains his elite status in the eyes of fans. His knack for delivering head-turning submissions has kept him at the forefront of the sport. Northcutt, well aware of the challenge, is ready to seize the opportunity to shine alongside Aoki. In an interview with The MMA Superfan, he expressed his eagerness, citing the missed opportunity due to COVID-19 in their previous encounter:
“I know we were set to fight before, and like you said, I had COVID-19 right before the fight. Those situations happen, but now it’s time, and it couldn’t be better that I’m actually getting to fight in Japan, a place I’ve always wanted to fight in Shinya’s hometown. I think it’s really going to get the crowd going.”
Fans Split on the Showdown
Both Northcutt and Aoki boast dedicated fanbases, and the anticipation for their clash is palpable. ONE Championship, tapping into this fervor, conducted a fan poll ahead of ONE 165. Supporters were asked to predict the outcome at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.
The Verdict
The results showed Aoki, a two-time ONE lightweight MMA world champion, being favored by 55 percent of fans, with Northcutt closely behind at 45. The split in fan opinion adds an extra layer of excitement to an already highly anticipated bout.
Don’t Miss the Action
For those eager to witness this generational matchup, check your local listings or visit ONE Championship’s official website for details on how to catch ONE 165 and ONE 166 from your location.
In conclusion, Sage Northcutt’s confidence is palpable, and the stage is set for an enthralling spectacle in Tokyo. Stay tuned as these two titans collide in a battle that promises to “get the crowd going” and leave a lasting impression on the world of combat sports.
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