Kenshiro Teraji vs. Carlos Canizales: Preview & Prediction

The EDION Arena Osaka is set to play host to a junior flyweight title showdown between Kenshiro Teraji and Carlos Canizales.

Teraji vs. Canizales will be taking place on Tuesday, January 23. It is Teraji who lays claim to the WBA and WBC gold, and he has successfully defended both titles. He’ll be looking to add another successful championship defense to his resume.

Combined, Teraji and Canizales have a record of 48-2-1. Both men have had just one loss on their pro records. Teraji avenged his 2021 TKO loss to Masamichi Yabuki by knocking him out in the third round of their rematch to reclaim the WBC title. Canizales’ lone defeat came via KO at the hands of Esteban Bermudez back in 2021.

How does Teraji vs. Canizales end? Here is our preview and prediction.

Kenshiro Teraji vs. Carlos Canizales Preview & Prediction

One thing Teraji does very well is executing his ability to get out of range just enough to pop his opponent with the right hand. Hekkie Budler found this out the hard way last year. He also isn’t afraid to mix it up by firing off punches to the body. While Teraji is known for his fan-favorite fighting style, he does tend to leave himself open when backing away.

Canizales isn’t shy when it comes to swinging leather early. He was not interested in a feeling-out process against Daniel Matellón in June 2023 and even swung for the fences at one point in the opening frame. Doing this against Teraji could lead to some fun exchanges, but I think it’ll ultimately be Canizales’ downfall.

I can see Teraji getting hit with some punches upstairs when he moves back, but I feel Canizales will be outgunned here. Can he land one big punch to pull off the upset? Absolutely, but Teraji is simply more polished and crisp on the feet.

Look for Canizales to be quite active in the early stages of the fight but then slow down near the midway point before being finished.

Prediction: Kenshiro Teraji by TKO

Fernando Quiles Jr.

Fernando has been covering combat sports and pro wrestling for over a decade. He currently writes for BJPenn.com and has also contributed for Sports Illustrated’s MMA Knockout. Fernando is excited to be a part of FightsATW to provide you with the latest news content in the world of pro wrestling.

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