Embodying the title of Pancrase Flyweight Tournament Champion, Yuya Wakamatsu's roots trace back to Kagoshima, nestled at the far south of Japan's core islands. From a young age, his feisty nature often led to unwarranted conflicts, creating ripples in his local community. Aiming to channel his abundant energy and acquire discipline, he sought solace in martial arts. Initially, as a teenager, he delved into boxing, but after being awe-struck by a ONE Championship event, he widened his martial arts horizon.
Fuelled by his dream of becoming a martial arts superstar, Wakamatsu embarked on a journey to Tokyo at 18. Within a span of just two years, he stepped into the professional cage, where despite a first-round submission loss, his determination stood unscathed. Bouncing back with a splendid nine-match winning streak, eight of these victories featured sensational knockouts. The pinnacle of his career, until then, was clinching the Pancrase Flyweight Tournament Championship in 2016, followed by a consistent streak that led him to the Pancrase World Title in 2018.
Wakamatsu's subsequent association with ONE Championship has him poised to etch his name on the world stage. Esteemed as a shining star in Japan's mixed martial arts landscape, his contests seldom reach the judges' scorecards. Instead, his dynamic style often brings the match to a halt in the first round itself.
Known as "Little Piranha" Yuya Wakamatsu's nickname reflects his larger-than-life persona in the fight world.
Weighing in at approximately 145 pounds, Yuya Wakamatsu's weight aligns with his competitive category in the fighting world.
Boasting a reach of 68 inches, Yuya Wakamatsu employs this attribute strategically during his matches.