Praising Takeya Mizugaki
April 6, 2009
I’m not ashamed to admit that that I fell in love with Takeya Mizugaki last night. No, not in THAT way, of course. I just loved watching him attempt to shock the MMA world by coming this close to defeating Miguel Torres. Everything from his jovial demeanor in the days leading up to the WEC bantamweight title fight against Torres, to the way he graciously accepted his defeat (even though you could tell he was hurting inside at the post-fight press conference) was admirable.
Following the loss, one of Mizgugaki’s cornermen walked right by me balling as though he had just found out that his mother passed away. I also noticed tears in Mizugaki’s eyes immediately after the judges’ scorecards were announced. When Torres first laid his belt on the table at the post-fight press conference, I noticed Mizugaki stare at it for a moment. I bet he was thinking, “Man, so close.”
It’s safe to say that the vast majority of North American MMA fans had never seen Mizugaki fight live before last night. It’s also safe to say that that same community is anxiously awaiting his next appearance in WEC. Ultimately, he deserved better, but you gotta do just a little more in the champ’s hometown to take his belt away.
I’ve often said that challengers should not receive a title shot after losing to the champion, but I would absolutely waive that rule to see Mizugaki vs. Torres II right away. Takeya Mizugaki definitely deserves another chance. I also agree with Michael David Smith of MMA Fanhouse when he writes that despite the loss, Mizugaki is now the second best 135-pound fighter in the world. Brian Bowles certainly has a tough act to follow.
Above is footage of Mizugaki vs. Masahiro Oishi from Cage Force 9 last December. This was Mizugaki’s last victory to date. Notice how he consoles his opponent after defeating him. If he isn’t the best MMA offer, I don’t know who is.
Check out Mizugaki’s post-fight thoughts HERE.
One Response to “Praising Takeya Mizugaki”
OMG – last night’s fight was probably THE best 135lb fight I’ve ever watched. I definitely thought it was going to go to Torres via split decision. I had Mizugaki winning a few of those rounds and I thought it was closer than the judge’s thought. While Torres is one of the best pound for pounders out there, Mizugaki gave him a run for his money. He was even able to control much of the octagon in my opinion. Can’t wait to see him fight again. Glad he’s in the WEC!
By rachel on Apr 6, 2009