Norman vs. Sasaki: Atlanta’s Young Champion Takes on Japan’s Knockout Artist in Tokyo on June 19

On Thursday, June 19, Brian Norman Jr. (27-0, 21 KOs), boxing’s youngest male world champion, defends his WBO welterweight world title in Tokyo, Japan against the explosive Jin Sasaki (19-1-1, 17 KOs). The bout will take place at Ota City General Gymnasium and will stream live exclusively on ESPN+ in the U.S. at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.

This marks Norman’s second defense of his title and his first fight on foreign soil since 2019. Sasaki, known for his knockout power and aggressive style, will look to make his mark on the global stage, with this being his first world title shot.

Brian Norman Jr.: Ready to write another chapter in “The Norman Experience”

Norman has been on a tear since making his Top Rank debut in early 2023. The 24-year-old from Atlanta has taken on challenges with ease, and his path to this title defense has been filled with thrilling knockouts. “The king from the south comes to take over the world. I like how that sounds,” Norman said, brimming with confidence. “On June 19, I’m ready to put on a stellar performance and write another triumphant chapter of ‘The Norman Experience.’”

In his most recent bout on March 29, Norman defended his WBO title with a third-round TKO over Puerto Rico’s Derrieck Cuevas, continuing his knockout streak after a brief dry spell. His previous victory, a massive upset against hometown hero Giovani Santillan, earned him the WBO interim title, which he later turned into the full championship.

Jin Sasaki: The Japanese knockout artist with a point to prove

Sasaki, 23, has made a name for himself in Japan, knocking out Keita Obara and Joe Noynay in his rise through the welterweight ranks. His power is undeniable — Sasaki has won five consecutive title defenses of his WBO Asia Pacific belt. Most recently, he went the full 12 rounds against Shoki Sakai, earning a unanimous decision on the Naoya Inoue-Ye Joon Kim undercard.

Sasaki’s rise has been swift, but Norman’s pedigree and experience might be too much for him. Sasaki himself is confident. “I’m in excellent shape and ready to show Norman how much I’ve grown since our sparring sessions. I have the tools to take this title from him,” Sasaki said.

The co-main event: Araneta vs. Simsri for the vacant IBF junior flyweight world title

In the co-feature, Cristian Araneta (25-2, 20 KOs) and Thanongsak Simsri (38-1, 34 KOs) will battle it out for the vacant IBF junior flyweight world title. Both men are well-established in the sport, and this fight promises to deliver fireworks. Araneta has earned a reputation for his aggressive style, while Simsri is known for his knockout power.

Welterweight tilt: Tanaka vs. Kobata for the vacant OPBF title

Also on the card, rising Japanese talent Sora Tanaka (3-0, 3 KOs) will square off against veteran southpaw Takeru Kobata (14-7-1, 6 KOs) in a 12-round welterweight tilt for the vacant OPBF title. Tanaka has made a name for himself with his unbeaten record and flawless finishing power, but Kobata, despite his experience, will aim to spoil Tanaka’s plans.

Why you should watch

• Norman vs. Sasaki: A battle between youth and experience with a world title on the line.

• Araneta vs. Simsri: A clash for the IBF junior flyweight title with two knockout artists.

• Tanaka vs. Kobata: Japan’s rising star fights for the OPBF welterweight title.

• Exclusive action on ESPN+ for U.S. subscribers.

Confirmed fights

Main Card

• Brian Norman Jr. vs. Jin Sasaki, 12 rounds, WBO welterweight world title

• Cristian Araneta vs. Thanongsak Simsri, 12 rounds, IBF junior flyweight world title

• Sora Tanaka vs. Takeru Kobata, 12 rounds, OPBF welterweight title

Undercard

• Additional bouts TBA

Event info

• Date: Thursday, June 19, 2025

• Location: Ota City General Gymnasium, Tokyo, Japan

• Time: 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT / 1:00 PM (Friday) JST

• Stream: LIVE on ESPN+

• Tickets: Available now via AXS.com