DEEP 41

Shigeru Saeki’s totally rockin DEEP returned to Korakuen Hall for their 41st instalment on the 16th of April.

Korakuen hall is probably the best place I regularly shoot in Japan. Nice bright, even lights, brilliant access around the ring and cool entrance lighting is a good combination.

The event was headlined by Katsunori Kikuno vs. Koichiro Matsumoto for DEEP’s lightweight strap. Both these guys have looked so good recently, totally outclassing most of their opponents that a lot of people were sure that the next great Japanese lightweight was going to come out of this match. Kikuno’s karate stylings completely dumbfounded Matsumoto and he just destroyed him totally. While people like Gryphon who call him the Japanese George St. Pierre are exaggerating, I can’t say that I am not excited about Kikuno’s career. His trademark frontkick is one of the best weapons I’ve seen in the ring lately and something I’ve been trying to do in my standup training too.

What Kikuno's front kick looks like when it lands (vs.Bu Kyung Jung). A KO generally follows.

Although I wasn't able to catch it as well- the same kick against Matsumoto.

The result. The kick drops the hands and then punches finished the job.

One of the best female fighters in the world, Miku Matsumoto had a non-title bout against Nicdali Calanic. Miku is running out of opponents, she is way too good. Although Calanic was a rookie, she had a bit of hype around her. Although they are friends, I’d love to see Megumi Fuji (my coach!) and Miku meet in a catchweight bout.

Miku Matsumoto entering the ring carrying her Deep Womens Lightwelt belt.

Miku's time in Shootboxing paid off. Devastating knees and front kick.

Calanic unable to breathe after 21 seconds with Miku.

Lots of good fights on this card, all of them ending inside the distance except one. Check out the event on YouTube or your local tracker if you ever see it around.

Guam prospect Joe Taimanglo ran head first into a choke against Toshiaki Kitada.

Shun Yagi's tattoo is most likely a Buddhist symbol but it still makes you look twice.

Won Sik Park slipping a punch against Naoki Matsushita.

Yuji Sakuragi en route to a KO over Minoru Kato.

Get even DEEPer with more photos at Sherdog.

Still working on getting flickr and SmugMug going again.