Did Uchiyama Wait Too Long to Make His US Debut?

[-PBP-]

I'm not an Uchiyama expert by any means but I follow enough to know that he has reigned atop this division for a long time and has been running through decent opposition for a number of years.

I look at another fighter that ranked atop his division (Tokiashi Nishioka) and hemade his US debut against Donaire but he was clearly past it, looked disinterested and looked like he was there for the payday.

At age 36 and recent retirement rumors, will Uchiyama fall victim to this same trap should he face Walters?

[Zaroku]

I'm not an Uchiyama expert by any means but I follow enough to know that he has reigned atop this division for a long time and has been running through decent opposition for a number of years.

I look at another fighter that ranked atop his division (Tokiashi Nishioka) and hemade his US debut against Donaire but he was clearly past it, looked disinterested and looked like he was there for the payday.

At age 36 and recent retirement rumors, will Uchiyama fall victim to this same trap should he face Walters?

Probably! I have enjoyed watching him whip axx in Tokyo for a long time now! Great champion.

[NEETzsche]

of course. he's never even attempted to unify to my knowledge

shame because he's very skilled and fun to watch. clearly deserves to be above yamanaka on the p4p list

[DreamerUSA]

I'm not an Uchiyama expert by any means but I follow enough to know that he has reigned atop this division for a long time and has been running through decent opposition for a number of years.

I look at another fighter that ranked atop his division (Tokiashi Nishioka) and hemade his US debut against Donaire but he was clearly past it, looked disinterested and looked like he was there for the payday.

At age 36 and recent retirement rumors, will Uchiyama fall victim to this same trap should he face Walters?

Going off his last fight, I would say no he has'nt waited to long , as far as him still being in his prime. The guy only has like 22 or 23 fights in his career, so he is'nt shop worn. I guess really , the only question would be if his heart is still in it, but no way to know that unless they fight.

[SlySlickSmooth]

I'm just speculating but I think the Japanese do not care too much for their fighters to go overseas. Fame and respect in their country is probably better and their lifestyles can be maximized fighting in Japan.

At 36 it isn't too late, it is just right for the Japanese fighter because if they lose at this age and overseas it will not be as much of a loss as it would be if he was in his prime years fighting 4 times a year internationally.