Tenshin Nasukawa has candidly spoken out after his humiliating loss to Floyd Mayweather on 31st December.
The 20-year-old Japanese kickboxer took on the 41-year-old undefeated boxer in a three-round exhibition match.
Mayweather destroyed Nasukawa in the first round, knocking him down three times before his corner threw in the towel.
Nasukawa, who broke down in tears after the fight, revealed that he had underestimated Mayweather.
"I have worked hard with a big dream in the combat world. Karate, kickboxing, MMA and boxing," he said (via World Boxing News).
"When I first got the offer I took it in a flash. I thought this was an opportunity of a lifetime, and although there were significant differences in accomplishments and weight classes, I felt that I must not run and take on the challenge.
"The days since the fight was confirmed have been enjoyable but with concerns, and I spent the time thinking about many things.
"At the end of the day, I got finished, but I have no regrets. I am disappointed at myself since I thought I could have done better. But I will face the facts and will continue to take on any challenge.
"I learned that I didn't work hard enough to earn this opportunity. I will use this defeat to improve myself and move forward this year.
"Despite all the things that happened leading up to the fight, I came to realise how truly great Mayweather was. I was the one underestimating him.
"I promise to make it to that level. It may take some time for me to become the man to haul the industry on my shoulders, but please continue to support.
"Everybody who worked to make this fight happen, thank you very much. Mr Mayweather, thank you very much."
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Featured Image Credit: PATopics: kickboxing, Boxing News, Boxing, Japan, Tenshin Nasukawa, MMA, Floyd Mayweather