Champion Naito feeling Pongsaklek pressure

Japan's WBC flyweight champion Daisuke Naito has begun showing signs of pressure in the build-up to this weekend's clash with Pongsaklek Wongjongkam. The Thai challenger flew into Japan on Monday to prepare for his fourth fight against Naito, who...

Japan's WBC flyweight champion Daisuke Naito has begun showing signs of pressure in the build-up to this weekend's clash with Pongsaklek Wongjongkam.

The Thai challenger flew into Japan on Monday to prepare for his fourth fight against Naito, who promptly pulled the plug on a news conference following a medical check in Tokyo.

"I know after Saturday's fight it could all be different," Naito told reporters. "I'm totally focused but I'm also very tense."

Naito won the title from Pongsaklek in a shock points win last July following two defeats at the hands of the hard-hitting Thai.

The 33-year-old champion claimed the pressure was on Pong-saklek, a national hero in Thailand after successfully defending his title 17 times before being ambushed by Naito.

"He was a bit careless last time we fought," said Naito. "I've seen his physique and he's even more ripped than before so I think he's really prepared for this fight."

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