Ryosuke Iwasa will defend his IBF super bantamweight crown for the second time in August when he takes on Ireland's TJ Doheny in Tokyo, Iwasa's gym announced Sunday.
"He is a huge obstacle, but if I can overcome him I'll become that much stronger," the 28-year-old Iwasa told a news conference in Kashiwa, Chiba Prefecture.
A 31-year-old southpaw, Doheny is the No. 1 contender and is undefeated in 19 pro fights with 14 knockouts. Iwasa is 25-2 with 16 wins by knockout. The fight is slated for Aug. 16 at Tokyo's Korakuen Hall.
"I want to start a new legend here," Iwasa said, referring to his recent switch to the Kashiwa-based Celes Boxing Sports Gym.
"He (Doheny) is a powerhouse and I expect him to pressure me. Both of my losses have been to southpaws, so that is my Achilles heel."