WBC minimumweight champion Katsunari Takayama will defend his title for the first time when he fights Japan-based former champion Eagle Kyowa of Thailand this summer, boxing sources said Tuesday.
Takayama, who was crowned champion after beating Isaac Bustos of Mexico in a unanimous decision last month, said he is ready to prove who the real hero is when he meets Eagle Kyowa in a 12-rounder at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo on Aug. 6.
"I'm glad for the opportunity to fight for the No. 1 title at Korakuen Hall. It's not my home field, but we'll all be satisfied once we see who emerges victorious," said Takayama, whose gym is based in Osaka.
Eagle Kyowa lost to Bustos on a technical knockout last December, failing in his second title defense while fracturing his right shoulder in the bout.