Rikiya is the first to claim the space around centre ring. He settles into the upright, relaxed stance that has long defined the Cuban school of boxing, his lead hand hanging loosely in front of him while his rear hand rests high by his cheek.
Light on his feet and perfectly balanced, he drifts across the canvas in small effortless steps, quietly inviting Aramaki to come and find him.
"Come on, champ. Let's finish what we started."
Contrary to what many inside Tokyo Dome had expected, Aramaki makes no attempt to rush the opening exchange. He advances behind a high guard, his shoulders loose and his steps measured, taking away the distance one careful stride at a time.
Seeing no urgency from the champion, Rikiya takes the initiative. He begins with a long jab, occasionally doubling it before drifting a step to his left or right, never staying on the same line for more than a moment.
Aramaki makes no attempt to answer. He calmly catches the punches on his gloves and forearms…
