Japanese women’s MMA star Hiroko “Cat’s Eye” Yamanaka’s trips to the United States to fight haven’t gone exactly as she would have liked.
Having gone winless in her two Strikeforce bouts, Yamanaka is hoping her return to U.S. soil this Saturday at Invicta FC 4 in Kansas City, Kan., will yield different results.
“I was thinking too much about what these opponents would do and how to fight them off based on that, so I will play my game based on what I would like to do this time,” Yamanaka told MMAWeekly.com.
Having helped establish the Jewels promotion in Japan, Yamanaka is looking forward to once again be a big part of an all-female company with Invicta.
“I have always thought about (fighting for) Invicta, since it’s an all-woman fight format. I am very honored to part of the show,” said Yamanaka. “I am also very happy to have an opportunity to be able to fight on U.S soil again.
“I honestly appreciate the incredible staff at Invicta and I hope to keep fighting for them and hopefully get a shot at a title.”
Before she can get that far, Yamanaka must first get past vaunted Brazilian fighter Ediene Gomes on Saturday night.
“Ediene looks very powerful and has a great timing to take opponents down,” said Yamanaka. “I am excited to get a fight on with her. I will, however, impose my will this time to come out victorious.”
Having last won a fight in June of 2011, Yamanaka’s goals for 2013 get back on track and show the world a different fighter this year.
“My New Year’s resolution is to beat everyone that comes my way in a spectacular fashion,” said Yamanaka. “I also would like to establish my fighting style of aggressiveness.
“I will fight hard to win American fans’ hearts, so please watch me this Saturday. Arigatou gozaimasu.”
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