Brian Norman Jr. Delivers Devastating KO to Retain World Title in Tokyo

"The King of the South" rules the East.

WBO welterweight world champion Brian Norman Jr. made a statement in Tokyo, Japan, with a thunderous fifth-round knockout over local favorite Jin Sasaki on Thursday at the Ota City General Gymnasium.

With the win, Norman (28-0, 22 KOs) successfully defended his title for the second time and extended his undefeated record. The 24-year-old Atlanta native—currently boxing’s youngest male world champion—silenced the home crowd by ending Sasaki’s (19-2-1, 17 KOs) nine-fight unbeaten streak in dramatic fashion.

The highlight came in the fifth round, when Norman landed a crushing left hook that sent Sasaki to the canvas, where he remained for several tense minutes. It was a knockout that could very well be in the running for Knockout of the Year honors.

“It was a wonderful fight,” said Norman. “I had a great opponent in front of me. You all saw his heart—he’s no slouch. Nothing but respect to him. I love Japan and would gladly come back.”

From the opening bell, Norman imposed his will. He dropped Sasaki less than a minute into the fight with a left hook to the head, then scored a second knockdown before the end of the round. Sasaki bravely battled back, throwing punches despite being clearly hurt, but Norman’s relentless offense continued to break him down.

Round three saw Norman press forward with uppercuts and right hands that had Sasaki on the brink. By round five, Norman closed the show with a single, spectacular shot.

“I knew whatever he brought to the table, I’m the champion for a reason,” Norman added. “And I showed that tonight.”

Looking ahead, Norman had a message for the rest of the welterweight division—and in particular, rising star Jaron “Boots” Ennis.

“I wish I had that fight next,” Norman said. “They heard me—B. Norm the storm is coming. And when a storm comes, you grab your boots and run. We’ll see what’s next.”