“My next fight is far from over” - Itsuki Hirata vows to continue fighting for fans and team

Japanese fan-favorite Itsuki Hirata held her head up high despite falling short at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri.

'Android 18' had no answer for her compatriot Chihiro Sawada's overwhelming wrestling pedigree and was dominated for three rounds.

As a result, she lost their atomweight MMA showdown via unanimous decision after three rounds.

This is another tough blow for Hirata, who has gone 1-4 in her last five outings.

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Although saddened by her setback, the 26-year-old vowed to bounce back and one day reclaim her form as a promising star in the women's 115-pound ranks.

Hirata wrote in a lengthy Instagram post:

"Win or lose, many things happen in my life as Itsuki Hirata. But I can continue to stand in the ring because of my sponsors, my training partners, and everyone who keeps pushing me forward. To live up to that support, I will become even stronger. Next year, I will return to the ring as a stronger version of myself. My fight is far from over."

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Itsuki Hirata thanks fans who stick by her through tough times

The charismatic Itsuki Hirata gained global fame for her fast start in ONE Championship.

But recently, her shortcomings against elite opponents have left her scrambling for answers.

The 26-year-old snapped her skid by beating Arti Khatri last August, but ran into another tough opponent in Sawada.

Despite her setbacks, Hirata is grateful for her loyal supporters who give her encouragement and motivation to continue getting better.

'Android 18' expressed gratitude to her supporters in the same Instagram post:

"Thank you so much for all the support, encouragement, and countless messages❗️I’m truly grateful for my teammates who trained with me every day, the staff who supported me, and the fans who stand by me no matter what. If seeing me fight can give someone strength or help them move forward, that is my greatest pride."

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Edited by Saiyed Adeem Karim