May 18th, 2019. Osaka.
The weigh-in stage is ready, with Ryoma Takeda and Umemoto Kimitada preparing to step onto the scales for their WBO Lightweight title fight. Both must come in at no more than 61.2 kilograms.
Despite the tight schedule, both fighters have reached their target weight without any problems. They look noticeably thinner, but neither seems bothered by it. They are both accustomed to looking this way before a fight.
Although Umemoto previously fought at Super Lightweight, his natural frame is not much different from Ryoma's. He is only half a centimeter taller, with slightly broader shoulders.
Once the two fighters sit together on the podium for the interview session, however, the difference becomes difficult to ignore.
The effects of dehydration are more noticeable on Umemoto's face than on Ryoma's. It is hardly severe, but several journalists still notice it.
