Brian Norman Jnr is enjoying life in Japan ahead of Thursday’s WBO welterweight title defense against Jin Sasaki. Having arrived in Japan weeks ago, Norman does not believe that preparing to fight outside of North America for the first time as a pro has had any hindrance on his training.
“There really hasn’t been any adjustment required, training is training no matter the location,” said Norman, who’s trained by his father Brian Norman Snr. “I’ve been doing this all my life. You don’t have to change how you walk just because you’re in another country… This camp has been amazing. I fought three months ago, so I came into this camp already sharp and in shape. I’d love to stay this active and be a true champion for the people.”
Norman, 24 years old and 27-0 (21 KOs), will encounter a 23-year-old challenger on a seven-fight winning streak and an overall record of 19-1-1 (17 KOs). Somewhat predictably at this stage of business, the native of Decatur, Georgia, is nonetheless predicting a straightforward night’s work against the Japanese contender. “I know Sasaki’s habits, techniques and anything he wants to do,” said Norman. “There’s nothing he can do to surprise me besides grow a third arm. I’m expecting him to fight harder than he ever has before because of the magnitude of this fight, but the end result will still be the same. I came with my belt and I’m leaving with my belt.
“I don’t care where I fight or who I fight, the fans always motivate me to go 10 times harder,” he continued. “They’re the reason I train so hard. You will not be disappointed at all, even if it’s over quickly.”
Again unsurprisingly, Norman insists he’s only getting better.
“My main improvement since becoming champion has been my mentality, and I will keep improving on it,” said Norman, who recently signed a new deal with Fighters First Management. “That’s what separates the goods from the greats. I truly believe I am unstoppable and will go down in history as that guy.”