Unified WBO/WBA Jr. Flyweight Champion René “Chulo” Santiago met face-to-face with former world champion Masataka Taniguchi ahead of their clash this Friday, April 3, at the famed Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan. The two exchanged a few words with the press ahead of their match.
René Santiago: “I feel 100% focused and ready for my match.
I want to keep showing the Japanese fans my qualities in the ring as I go for my third straight victory in their land.
I will give it my all to return to Puerto Rico with my titles.”
Masataka Taniguchi: “I have to be better than Santiago for 12 rounds, or 36 minutes.
I will not let him do as he pleases.
Santiago will return home empty-handed.”
“The Road Warrior” Chulo Santiago enters this contest as a heavy favorite after dethroning two Japanese champions in 2025. Looking ahead in his career, he does not rule out a potential rematch with newly crowned WBC Champion Sokichi Iwata following a victory on Friday night.
The 12th edition of TREASURE BOXING, led by Masayuki Ito, also features two former world champions in the co-main event, as Yukinori Oguni squares off against Marlon “Nightmare” Tapales over 10 rounds.
Santiago vs. Taniguchi is brought to you by Treasure Boxing in association with Tuto Zabala Jr. All Star Boxing, Inc. The card will air live in Japan on U-Next, WAPA TV in Puerto Rico, and ESPN KnockOut throughout Latin America.
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