Finally, Sage Northcutt will have the chance to face off against the renowned Shinya Aoki – a monumental event for both fighters.
Northcutt (12-3) is set to take on Aoki (47-11) in two months as part of ONE Championship 165 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, according to promotion officials’ announcement on social media. The Jan. 28 matchup will mark Aoki’s final fight with ONE, as reported by ESPN.
In April 2021, Northcutt, 27, was set to fight Aoki, 40, but COVID-19 complications delayed their bout. His last fight was in May when he defeated Ahmed Mujtaba, marking his first ONE win and first victory since July 2018. Northcutt was once considered one of the most promising fighters in the sport when he signed with the UFC in 2015, and now looks to reclaim his glory.
Moving forward, Aoki is looking to end a two-fight losing streak as he prepares for his final fight in front of his hometown fans in Tokyo. Despite the setbacks, he has an impressive resume with titles and experience across multiple organizations.
Aoki is known for his submission skills, which poses a potential challenge for Northcutt who has struggled against such tactics in the past. However, Northcutt is determined to showcase his growth as a fighter and secure a victory against Aoki.
Sarah Foster is your guide to the world of Mixed Martial Arts. With a deep understanding of MMA’s intricacies and a passion for the sport, she offers comprehensive coverage of MMA events, fighter profiles, and in-depth analysis of fights. Sarah’s commitment to the octagon ensures that readers stay engaged with the latest developments in the MMA world.
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