Shokichi Iwata captured the WBC Light Flyweight world title after defeating Thailand’s Thammanoon Niyomtrong on March 15, 2026, in Yokohama, Japan. The fight ended after the eighth round when Niyomtrong was ruled unable to continue because of a deep cut above his left eye, sending the result to the scorecards. Iwata was then awarded a unanimous technical decision, sealing a huge win in front of his home crowd.
It was a strong and disciplined performance from Iwata from the very start. He fought with urgency, pressure, and sharp straight combinations, using his size and rhythm well against the shorter and more experienced Thai champion. As the rounds passed, he kept control of the distance and repeatedly found success, especially as damage began to build around Niyomtrong’s left eye.
Thammanoon Niyomtrong, also known to many fans as Knockout CP Freshmart, tried to respond with movement and veteran composure, but Iwata’s pressure never really dropped. By the later rounds, the injury above the champion’s eye had become too serious to ignore. After the eighth round, the ringside doctor stepped in and ruled that it was unsafe for Niyomtrong to continue. Because the bout had already gone past four rounds, the judges’ scorecards decided the outcome, and all three favored Iwata.
The victory is a major moment in Iwata’s career. It makes him the new WBC Light Flyweight world champion and adds another important chapter to Japan’s already strong presence in the lower weight divisions. Reports after the fight also noted that the win made Iwata a two time world champion at the weight, underlining just how important this result is for his standing in the sport.
For Niyomtrong, the loss is a painful setback, especially given the way the fight ended. The Thai veteran came into Yokohama with a reputation as one of the division’s most respected names, but on this night he was beaten by the younger, sharper man. Iwata looked hungry, confident, and fully ready for the moment.
In the end, Yokohama belonged to Shokichi Iwata. Fighting in front of his home fans, he delivered the kind of performance that can change a career. Now, with the green and gold belt in his hands, the light flyweight division has a new champion and Japan has another boxing star to rally behind.
