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Makoto Nishiyama
Q: What is your condition like?
A: Well, I still have 2kg to lose, but my condition is as good as ever.
Q: It is your first fight in K-1, so how do you feel about it right now?
A: Well, I'm 33 years old and have had 35 kickboxing fights, so I am happy to step up in level.
Q: What is your actual job?
A: I work for Ajinomoto as a business man.
I hope the fans leave the event thinking that the opening fight was the most exciting on the card.
Q: What is your motivation to keep fighting?
A: Well, I planned to retire from fighting after graduating university, but I happened to lose a fight around the same time.
I was so disappointed that I didn't want to leave the sport in such a way. It has been tough to do both at 100%, but I am doing my best.
Q: What sort of fight do you want to show tomorrow?
A: Well, my opponent is a strong fighter with great technique. I have to be well mentally prepared for the fight to ensure I'm not beaten.
Q: Was entering K-1 one of your goals?
A: After K-1 made the -63kg division and I saw how exciting it was, I was wondering why I wasn't part of it.
It made me train harder to be in the mix. I hope this victory will lead to better things.
Q: Do you have a message for your fans?
A: Well, I don't think I have that many, but I appreciate their support.
Many people have helped me get this far, and I want to thank them, and ask for their continued support.
Q: Have you fought any K-1 fighters recently?
A: Yes, I beat Matsumoto in September by knockout in round 1.
Q: What exactly is you position in the Ajinomoto?
A: I entered the company hoping to be part of the team that makes supplements, but currently my section has nothing to do with them.
Hopefully one day I'll move to a more sports-oriented division.