Saya Ito vs Haru Tajima Title Rematch Booked For Tenkaichi 7315-year-old “Muay Thai Genius” Saya Ito and former J-Girls Mini Flyweight Champion Haru “Taj Mahal” Tajima are set to face off for a second time on September 7th at Tenkaichi 73 in Koza, Okinawa, Japan. Ito and Tajima will meet in a rematch for the WPMF Japan Women’s Pinweight Championship.

Tenkaichi officials announced plans for the fight this week. Ito and Tajima initially met in May at Tenkaichi 71 where Tajima, who was competing for the first time since late 2010, prevailed via a razor-thin Unanimous Decision. Ito now looks to avenge the close loss and capture another title next month.

Ito (78-12-3 amateur, 1-2-1 pro) has gotten off to a rocky start in her professional career since turning pro in April. After defeating South Korean prospect Hye-Young Park in her pro debut, Ito made a quick return to the ring to face Tajima on May 18th, but Tajima proved that she is still a force to be reckoned with by outpointing the teen sensation. Since the loss, Ito has fought to a Majority Draw with reigning J-Girls Mini Flyweight Champion Momi in mid-July and, most recently, suffered a competitive decision defeat against Sylvie von Duuglas-Ittu earlier this week.

Tajima (16-2-0) became the inaugural J-Girls Mini Flyweight Champion in November 2008 by defeating the aforementioned Momi, who has since gone on to become one of Japan’s top female kickboxers. Tajima lost the J-Girls title to Erika Kamimura in July 2009, but rebounded with four straight victories before suffering a Split Decision loss in October 2010. She announced her abrupt retirement following the defeat. After a lengthy hiatus, Tajima returned to action in May and surprised some observers by handing Ito her first professional defeat in an action-packed three-round bout.

Tenkaichi 73 takes place on September 7th at Music Town Oto-Ichiba in Koza, Okinawa, Japan. The WPMF title rematch between Ito and Tajima will be contested over five 2:00 rounds.

 

 

(Photo Credit: eFight)