This week, the UFC signed two Japanese talents who will make their debuts at UFC Fight Night, inside the legendary Saitama Super Arena on September 23.
After Syuri Kondo, Daichi Abe signed a deal with the promotion and will face South Korean fighter, Hyun Gyu Lim.
With no fears, Abe spoke with MMA Plus and revealed his goals, motivation and his big dream of fighting in the UFC.
“I started Judo at eight-years-old and competed until high school, I became National Judo Champion when I was in third grade of high school. Then I started to compete in kickboxing and become J-Network Champ.”
“My fighting style is to always look for the finish as you can see from my fighting record. To face Lim is another fight which I will look for another finish! Of course, he is a great fighter and aggressive and has a great heart. So, it will be an exciting fight that fans can not miss,” says Abe who has a 5-0 in MMA, with four impressive finishes.
After taking home the Pancrase belt, becoming a champion for one of the most respected and historical MMA promotions in Japan, Daichi was awarded the opportunity to fight in UFC and showcase his abilities and aggressive style to international fans.
Perhaps the 25-years-old is still dreaming big but when answering the question about his future goals, Abe showed a lot of confidence in himself and is looking towards the UFC belt.
“I want to be UFC champion, for sure, and make a mark in history. Of course I want to be famous and make money like Conor McGregor. He is not my idol but I respect him as fighter. Fundamentally, there are changes from “splits and guts” to “athlete and sports” game. I want to be a top position in the new era of MMA,” says the welterweight talent.
In Daichi’s opinion, the Japanese prospect believes the current champion, Tyron Woodley will retain his belt against Brazilian Jiu Jitsu World Champion, Demian Maia.
“You know this belt is my focus. Both fighters are tough. it’s 50/50 percent from both sides but I believe Woodley will win in the end,” ended Abe.
