Itsuki Hirata reveals where she spent New Year’s Eve

Itsuki Hirata spent New Year’s Eve in New York City, but she didn’t end up where most tourists go to celebrate the new year.

Following her first setback against Jihin Radzuan at ONE X last March, ‘Android 18’ has begun working to improve her skills, specifically on her feet. To hone her striking game, the fast-rising Japanese standout relocated to The Big Apple and began working with some of the best teams in MMA, including the Serra-Longo Fight Team.

In an interview with ONE Championship, Itsuki Hirata discussed some of her adventures in the Empire City:

“I returned to New York at the end of last year. It was extremely cold. I wanted to go to Times Square for the countdown, but due to jet lag, I ended up spending New Year's Eve on the train.”

Hirata will put her newfound skills to the test in a battle against No. 2 ranked atomweight contender Ham Seo Hee this Friday night as ONE Championship returns to the familiar confines of the Singapore Indoor Stadium for ONE Fight Night 8 on Prime Video. The bout could very well play a significant role in deciding who will be next to challenge for the ONE atomweight world championship, currently held by the promotion’s first and only atomweight queen, Angela Lee.

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Harsh criticism pushed Itsuki Hirata away from social media following weigh-in debacle

Itsuki Hirata was originally scheduled to square off with Ham Seo Hee at ONE 163 in November. Unfortunately, ‘Android 18’ failed multiple hydration tests. Her opponent was offered the opportunity to compete at a catchweight, but Ham turned down the proposal, calling Hirata “unprofessional” and refusing to reward her with a fight for her actions.

Hirata also received harsh criticism online. As a result, the 23-year-old star shied away from using social media to clear her mind and start the new year off on the right foot:

“It’s always tough [to be criticized]. I wanted to take a break for about a month, and I wanted to start the new year with a fresh mindset."

Hirata also openly admitted that she is anxious about successfully weighing in ahead of this Friday’s showdown with Ham Seo Hee.

“I am full of anxiety [about returning and making the weight], but I believe in myself and see it through.”

With the event mere days away, fans, and especially ‘Hamzzang’ will have a close eye when Itsuki Hirata steps on the scale ahead of ONE Fight Night 8 this Friday.

All ONE Fight Night events are broadcast live and free on Prime Video.