“I wanted to fight with her while she’s still strong” - Itsuki Hirata welcomes a tough challenge in Ham Seo Hee

Japanese judoka Itsuki Hirata has a huge test ahead of her. In the competitive atomweight division, she will face MMA veteran Ham Seo Hee at ONE 163 on November 19.

South Korea's 'Hamzzang' is a veteran of over 30 MMA fights in her career. She has fought the top names in her weight class and held and defended world titles in Jewels, Road FC, and Rizin.

Later this year, the 6-1 'Android 18' Itsuki Hirata will look to get a win against this experienced combatant. It will be a huge challenge for the 23-year-old's career. While speaking at the ONE 163 press conference, Hirata explained why she wanted this match:

"I know she’s strong and a veteran in the sport. I wanted to fight with her while she’s still strong. I guess many people will talk about how I will lose this fight. For me, there’s always a chance to win. I’ve been training really hard, so why not fight with someone who is really strong?"

With the depth in competition in ONE's atomweight division, Hirata does not want an unranked fighter. 'Android 18' wants to test herself against the best:

"To be honest, I don’t see a lot of value to fight with unranked fighters, so I would rather fight with a stronger opponent now. My generation will start from here. Again, I know everyone says I will lose this fight, but I see there’s a chance to win. I want you guys to see that. I will do my best."

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Itsuki Hirata may get a title shot with a win over Ham Seo Hee

Facing Ham Seo Hee at ONE 163 on November 19 will be a major point in the career of Itsuki Hirata. With a win, the Japanese fighter may be next in line for a title shot against the atomweight queen Angela Lee.

ONE Championship Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong explained the stakes of the fight while speaking to ABEMA:

“I think if Itsuki beats Seo Hee Ham, we’ll do a title shot vs. Angela Lee.”

He's also looking forward to the matchup:

“Two of the greatest atomweights on the planet, it’s gonna be a very, very interesting matchup. It’s a legend in Seo Hee Ham vs. the rising star in Itsuki.”

ONE 163 is scheduled for November 19 and will include an atomweight showdown between Ham Seo Hee and Itsuki Hirata. This event will be headlined by a kickboxing world title fight between Hiroki Akimoto and Petchtanong Petchfergus.