ROF Young Guns Champion Tyler THUNDER Toner travelled to Japan this weekend and scored a K.O. victory over Shootboxing legend Kenichi Ogata.
Toner was a huge underdog in this fight. So much so that some of his team mates were telling him not to take the fight.
"He has too much experience!" "They
aren't paying you enough!" were the sentiments echoing in his head
during the 15 hour travel time to Japan. Except for Duane BANG Ludwig,
who travelled to Japan with Toner. Ludwig had 100% confidence in Toner
from the start.
Initially the fight with Ogata was
offered to Ludwig, and not Toner at all. However, Ludwig was already
signed to an upcoming bout in Strikeforce. Ludwig had to turn down the
fight, but immediately asked if Toner could take his place. ROF
promoter Sven Bean pitched the idea to the Shootboxing organization and
they agreed to let Toner step in.
At the 3:00 minute mark of the
first round Toner landed a picture perfect high roundhouse kick to the
neck of the Shootboxing legend. Ogata crumpled to the floor, and Toner
was winner by Knock Out!
From ROF promoter Sven Bean:
"I know Tyler was receiving
some heat before the fight, but he had such a great outlook going in to
it. And he had BANG behind him from the beginning, which I know gave
him a lot of confidence. Tyler was able to go to Japan and fight. This
is something that very, very few people get to do. He was able to bring
his girlfriend with him and stay for a few extra days too. I knew Tyler
had an uphill battle in this one, but he is one of the most rugged,
durable, dedicated fighters I have ever worked with. I also believed
Tyler had it in him to win this. He took the opportunity, and made the
most of it. Its good to see someone still willing to go against the
odds and swing for the fences. I couldn't be happier for Tyler and I am
very, very proud to call him champion. Way To Go Thunder!"
