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Sakurai Smashes Aoki at DREAM.8
The mixed martial arts fightsport extravaganza comprised 10 bouts, featuring four qualifiers for the DREAM Welterweight GP (76 kg/168lbs); and six additional MMA contests in a variety of weight classes.

Rebecca Leigh

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04.05.09 Sakurai Smashes Aoki at DREAM.8 Author: Monty DiPietro
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manage to stop him, so not really. I thought I dropped him in the first and second, but was too stiff to stop him completely.

How is your eye?

It is painful. His striking was good. He is a good fighter.

Did you think you’d win the decision?

Honestly speaking, I don’t think he scored anything so I had to be the winner. Even if everyone wanted him to win, they couldn’t possibly give it to him.


Hideo Tokoro

What did you think of the fight?

I lost to my opponent, but I feel like I actually lost to myself, so I feel rather miserable.

What do you mean that you lost to yourself?

I think I didn’t really believe in myself enough. That is the main thing I think.

We heard from some fans before the fight that they don’t mind if you win or lose, they will continue supporting you.

I appreciate that sort of comment, and that some fans feel that way.


Andre Galvao

What did you think of the fight?

Honestly, John was a strong and experienced fighter with nearly 40 fights. It felt good, I had just two before this fight, but I managed to win. From the start I knew I would need to finish the fight somehow.

Who would you like to fight, and what you like to achieve from now?

I don’t mind who I fight in the GP as my only thoughts are to fight in the final. I just really want to show off my jiujitsu and use it to finish each and every fight.


John Alessio

How do you feel about the fight?

I felt really good out there, but obviously I am very, very disappointed with the outcome. I felt I was controlling the stand up, and even when he got my back I was calm, and felt relaxed. And then he got me in the armbar. I should never have lost to someone with just two fights, regardless of his jiujitsu credentials. I am very upset with the outcome.

How far do you think your opponent tonight will make it in this GP?

I think he has made it too far already. He should not have been able to beat me. His jiujitsu is good, so if he gets his opponent to the ground he might win. I do not think he is a complete fighter though. I do wish everyone in the tournament all the best. I just wish I was progressing to the next round, and hope for another chance to get in.


Markus Zaromskis

How do you feel about the fight?

I was surprised because he took so many punches and knees, but kept going. I can say he is a very experienced fighter. It was a very hard fight for me.
He threw some unusual techniques, like double fisted punches.

What did you think?

I kind of expected some things like that, but he really isn’t a normal fighter so I was still a little bit surprised.

You did a dramatic double-knee flip. Is that something you practice?

Yes it is. I was trying to land on his body, but the ring was a little slippery. I wanted to throw more spinning and jumping kicks, but kept slipping each time.

Does that technique have a name?

Let’s call it the Samurai

Who would you like to fight next?

I’d like to fight either Aoki or Sakurai. Tonight will be a close fight and I don’t know which will win. One is a stand up fighter, and the other is a ground fighter, so either one would make an interesting match-up for me. I would do everything possible to prepare for either one.


Seichi Ikemoto

How do you feel about the fight?

I was after the belt, so losing has made me disappointed. I won’t give up though. I will keep trying for it. I lost the fight, but my feeling is still strong. My opponent was very strong. Exchanging blows with him so often might not have been the best idea though.

What is the name of the double chop you threw?

I was going to call it the Double Hammer, but… Well, the audience seemed to enjoy it so I don’t regret using it at all.

He also used some unusual techniques, right?

The double knee? Yes, I am also good at that.

What is your goal now?

Well, I am out of the GP, but I still want to make a place for myself in DREAM.


Jason High

How did you feel the fight went?

It felt great. It was a good fight, and I really look forward to coming back. I hope they all go that way. If the next round was tomorrow, I am ready to go!

Congratulations on your won. Sorry to ask a an off-topic question, but what did you learn from the fight you had with Jay Heron? You got knocked out quickly, so what changes have you made?

You

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