Itsuki Hirata admits she has a lot to learn ‘when it comes to MMA grappling’

Itsuki Hirata believes she still has a lot to learn about grappling in the world of mixed martial arts.

‘Android 18’ comes from a strong judo background, having begun training at the Kodokan Judo Institute when she was just six years old. As she progressed, Hirata had eyes on representing her country at the Olympic games. Unfortunately, injuries sustained throughout middle and high school forced her to give up on that dream. But when one door closes, another opens.

It was then that she turned her attention to mixed martial arts, where she was able to implement her judo skills to perfection, earning a ONE Championship contract in the process. Despite her early success, Itsuki Hirata understands that she has a long way to go in becoming truly great in MMA. In an interview with the promotion, Hirata had this to say regarding her grappling background and how it translates to mixed martial arts:

“I acknowledge that while I come from a strong judo and grappling background, MMA is different from those sports, and I feel like I still have a lot to learn when it comes to MMA grappling.”

Itsuki Hirata will attempt to put her grappling game to the test once again this Friday night as she returns to the Circle for a high-stakes matchup with No. 2 ranked contender Ham Seo Hee at ONE Fight Night 8 on Prime Video.

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Itsuki Hirata hopes to take things to the ground against Ham Seo Hee on Friday night

Following her first setback inside the Circle at ONE X last year, Itsuki Hirata has been working to improve her striking skills. But the budding Japanese superstar understands that her biggest strength is in the grappling game. She has every intention of implementing her wrestling on Friday night against one of the division’s best strikers.

“I’ve been focusing on wrestling and grappling, just like the last time,” Hirata revealed. “I think Ham is good at boxing range. When I watched her fight with (Denice) Zamboanga, I felt that her range of wrestling, grappling, and takedown techniques was narrow. I’m good at takedowns and ground fighting, so I hope to take it there, if possible.”

With 25 career wins, Ham Seo Hee has likely seen it all inside the cage, making her a very well-rounded and dangerous fighter. ‘Hamzzang’ is also on the cusp of a ONE world title opportunity, guaranteeing she will be at her absolute best when she steps into the Circle at ONE Fight Night 8.

Amazon Prime Video subscribers can catch all the action this Friday night live and for free in U.S. primetime.