BoxingScene has confirmed that Tsutsumi never fully recovered from the severe damage suffered in his disputed points victory over former four-division champion Nonito Donaire last December 17 in Tokyo.
Naoya Inoue continues to add to his legacy as perhaps the greatest fighter to ever come out of Japan.
The Ring, the storied “Bible of Boxing,” held its annual award ceremony on Friday, recognizing its Fighters of the Year and winners in six other categories.
A strong second half surge by Seiya Tsutsumi was just enough to prevent Nonito Donaire from once again making boxing history. Tsutsumi barely turned away the legendary former four-division champ to claim a split decision and retain his WBA 118lbs title.
Nonito Donaire is ripped and ready to defy Father Time as he challenges younger and unbeaten Seiya Tsutsumi on Wednesday in Tokyo.
Nonito Donaire, 43, still chasing the best opponents as his assignment against Seiya Tsutsumi proves, writes Jake Donovan
Seiya Tsutsumi and Nonito Donaire have finally learned the exact stakes for their forthcoming clash - the WBA title
Nonito Donaire, now 43, is well aware he is on borrowed time in his Hall of Fame-bound career. If anything, that only further motivates him to strive for the best challenges.
Antonio Vargas traveled to Japan as a considerable underdog but left with his title intact and plenty of options for his next outing.
Twelve years ago, when Takuma Inoue and Seiya Tsutsumi were promising 16-year-old amateur boxers, Inoue defeated Tsutsumi in the semifinal of a national tournament. With decidedly higher stakes Sunday in the main event of a four-title-fight card at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Tsutsumi got his revenge and upset Inoue by unanimous decision to claim the WBA bantamweight title.