Hiroki Akimoto prepares for title shot against Jonathan Haggerty at ONE SAMURAI 4
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 11, 2026, 2:46 AM
Last updated Oct 11, 2026
Hiroki Akimoto will face Jonathan Haggerty for the ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title on October 17 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo. Akimoto, a former champ, looks to reclaim the title after a tough three-fight losing streak. After losing the championship belt to Petchtanong Petchfergus in 2022, Akimoto has rebounded with three consecutive victories, including a critical win over John Lineker in March 2025. The emotional stakes are high for Akimoto, who emphasizes the importance of perseverance and discipline throughout his journey back to championship contention.
- •Akimoto challenges Haggerty for the title on October 17.
- •He aims to reclaim the belt lost in 2022.
- •Akimoto is on a three-fight winning streak.
- •His most recent win was against John Lineker in March 2025.
- •The fight will be held at Ariake Arena in Tokyo.
- 2:46 AMYahoo Sports — ‘I Didn’t Let My Spirit Break’ – Hiroki Akimoto Details His Grueling Road Back To A World Title Shot At ONE SAMURAI 4
"The former kickboxing king reflects on his hardest chapter ahead of his showdown with Jonathan Haggerty.
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