Shokichi Iwata to defend WBC light-flyweight crown to undefeated challenger

Shokichi Iwata vs Erik Badillo

WBC Light Flyweight World Champion Shokichi Iwata will make the first defense of his title on July 20 when he faces undefeated Mexican challenger Erik Badillo at the historic Kokugikan Arena in Tokyo, Japan.

Iwata captured the championship in October 2024 with a victory over Jairo Noriega and now looks to further establish himself as the division’s ruler in his first appearance as a defending champion.

The Japanese star enters the bout with a record of 16 victories, including 13 knockouts, against two defeats.

Standing across the ring will be Erik Badillo, who earned his world title opportunity after compiling a flawless record of 19 wins without a loss. The Mexican contender will be aiming to become a world champion for the first time and score the biggest victory of his career on Japanese soil.

The matchup promises to pit the champion’s power and experience against the hunger and youth of a determined challenger seeking to claim the prestigious WBC green and gold belt.