Knockout punch wipes memory of Japanese boxer Sasaki: “I don’t even remember this title fight being decided”

Brian Norman Jr. (28-0) successfully defended his WBO welterweight title with a savage fifth-round knockout of Jin Sasaki at the Ota-City General Gymnasium in Tokyo, Japan. But the American’s victory had terrifying consequences – the Japanese fighter reportedly lost all memory of the past month and a half.

Norman Jr. ends Sasaki dreams

Nicknamed “The Assassin II,” Norman landed a powerful overhand left that connected flush with Sasaki’s jaw. As the Japanese fighter collapsed unconscious, the back of his head hit the canvas.

According to a post by Issei Nakaya – Sasaki’s trainer and promoter – on the official Hachioji Nakaya Boxing Gym social media, Sasaki was taken to hospital for a CT scan and told doctors he had no recollection of the previous six weeks. “I don’t even remember this being a title fight,” he reportedly said.

Norman Jr.’s left hook combinations were devastating from the outset. He dropped Sasaki twice in the first round – the first a clean shot to the head, and the second a rapid flurry that overwhelmed the Japanese fighter before he could lift his guard.

Jin Sasaki’s ranking in the WBO rankings

Jin Sasaki was ranked No 2 by the WBO going into the bout, holding the Asia-Pacific title and trailing only the champion Norman and Alexis Rocha of the United States, who currently holds the NABO (North American Boxing Organization) belt.

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