Very few fights have blockbusters written on them the moment they get announced. Yoshiki Takei vs. Daigo Higa is one such encounter, where relentless action, brutal blows, and exploding punches will be a constant theme throughout the fight. A world title is also on the line to add to its charm. But what will be the fate of the two boxers set on the collision course? Is it the champion who will hold on to his gold, or will it be the challenger who will find a new leash in his career?

Takei and Higa will fight it out for the WBO bantamweight title, when they feature on the Naoya Inoue vs. TJ Doheny undercard on September 3 at the Ariake Arena. Despite other exciting fights on the bill, this fight can potentially seize the headlines. Before that happens, let’s have a look at how the two boxers stack up.

Yoshiki Takei vs. Daigo Higa: Tale of Tape

Takei, at 28, is making strides in the boxing community after he arrived from the kickboxing world. He was the reigning K-1 super bantamweight champion who decided to transition to boxing in 2021. The Tokyo native based his boxing style on his kickboxing roots and deployed the same quick reflexes and aggression, which helped him collect an unblemished record of 9-0 with 8 KOs. His KO ratio of 88.89% also indicates why he has seen such a rapid rise. The only time he went the distance was in his last fight when he fought for the WBO crown in a high-stakes bout and put on a dominating display.

In addition, Takei has the advantage when it comes to size with his tall frame of 5’7″ (170 cm) and longer levers with a reach of 68″ (173 cm). It allows him to reach to his opponent’s body quicker and do significant damage. However, it might not be enough to intimidate Higa, who is also made of the same mold.

Higa, at 29, is the more experienced of the two and has also more fights under his belt. He announced himself to the boxing world when he won the WBC flyweight championship in his thirteenth pro fight and continued on an upward trajectory until he met Cristofer Rosales and dropped his title. The Urasoe native’s weight struggles forced a move up to bantamweight. Despite one hiccup in the new weight class, he has been on an impressive run. Higa’s record of 21-2-1 with 19 KOs hints at his fan-friendly style and his boxing prowess. His KO ratio of 90.48% also lends strength to his reputation as a power puncher.

But Higa cedes ground in size and reach, as he stands tall at 5′ 4″ (163 cm) and has a reach of 64″ (163 cm). He tries to double down on his power to make up for his size disadvantage. He will find himself in a similar territory when he challenges Takei for the WBO championship. Does he have enough experience to figure out the champion and snatch the belt from him?

Prediction: Where will the fight be won?

While both fighters have a similar style and a penchant for finishes, Takei’s awkward and unorthodox style sets him apart from the rest. It will take a while before Higa adjusts to how he comes forward and how he lands blows, mixing with combinations. The fans will keep a keen eye on whether Higa will decode Takei before the latter lands his devastating blows.

Whereas, Higa has fought fighters of all styles and sizes and it’s not a unique position for him. He has enough experience to deal with what Takei might throw at him. He might have to be swift on his feet, be elusive, and be ruthless in exploiting the openings. It will be a test for Takei too because he hasn’t fought anyone of Higa’s experience and caliber, and if he is not careful enough, he might get found out. It’s too close a fight to call, but it will be a treat to watch. One won’t be wrong in sticking with either of the boxers.

What do you make of this coming fight between Yoshiki Takei and Daigo Higa? Who do you think will leave the arena as a victor? Let us know in the comments below.