The Japanese Lightweight Division is finally shifting.
For months it has been stagnant, weighed down by retirements waiting to happen, contenders stuck in limbo, and rankings that barely moved.
But tonight, the JBC releases a rare "Condition Recap" before unveiling the new list, explaining why the division can no longer remain unchanged.
Condition Recap — Why the Rankings Move Tonight
First is Naegi Jurobei, the former #1 contender.
Just a while ago, he stepped into the ring to fight for the vacant Lightweight title, a bout meant to crown the new king of the division. Instead, Shinichi Yanagimoto shattered his jaw with a vicious counter in the eighth round.
Doctors told him fully recovery would take up to one and half a year. But last week, after thinking it over, Jurobei announced his retirement. And his seat at the top opens.
