The former PrideFC lightweight champion Takanori ‘The Fireball Kid’ Gomi will be making his octagon debut against Kenny Florian at UFC Fight Night 21. The four-time All Japan Combat Wrestling champion and former Shooto welterweight champ plans on making a statement on March 31st as he works his way up in the UFC lightweight division.
Gomi talks about his transition from Japanese to U.S. mixed martial arts (MMA) rules, where elbows strikes is something he had to add as part of his intense training. He understands how difficult of a fighter Florian will be as his first test in the UFC, but Gomi seems pretty confident coming into this fight especially with over 30 MMA fights under his belt.
From Takanori Gomi:
“Because this is the first time I’m going to fight in the Octagon, and fight under new rules, so I am a little bit concerned about this stuff. There is no elbow fighting in Japan, so that’s my (biggest) concern…Because I’ve fought more than 30 (fights) and I’m still looking for a challenge in my career. That’s the main reason to come to the UFC…Kenny’s kicks and punches are so strong, and his defense is outstanding, so I am studying his style…I’m trying to be a champion in the UFC.”
