Boxer Sato gets first world title shot

Kyodo

Boxer Yota Sato will fight WBC super flyweight champion Suriyan Sor Rungvisai of Thailand at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo on March 27, his Kyoei Gym said Monday.

The third-ranked Sato will take his first shot at a world title after vacating the Japanese super flyweight crown earlier this month that he successfully defended five times.

“It’s been my dream to fight in a world title match since I was a child,” the 27-year-old said. “It’s a great honor to do it at Korakuen Hall, where I’ve fought for many years, in front of my supporters.”

Sato owns a record of 23-2 with 12 knockouts and one draw.

Suriyan defeated Nobuo Nashiro in a unanimous decision in Bangkok last November.