ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title: Yuki Yoza Reveals Reason For Fighting Without Hand Wraps Before Taking On Jonathan Haggerty

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Japanese kickboxer Yuki Yoza has explained why he fights without hand wraps as he prepares to face Jonathan Haggerty at ONE SAMURAI 1 on April 29. The 28-year-old will challenge for the ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title under his preferred glove-only style.

Yoza has made a strong impact in ONE Championship since his 2025 debut. He has won three bouts, building his status as a serious contender. His biggest result came at ONE 173 in Japan, where he beat reigning ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Champion Superlek.

Growing global attention and praise from Joe Rogan

His performances have drawn attention from international observers. Commentator Joe Rogan recently called Yoza one of his favourite fighters to watch. Rogan pointed to the Japanese athlete’s attacking style and finishing ability, further lifting interest before the April title challenge.

Technical reasons behind ditching hand wraps

Yoza said he stopped using wraps late in his K-1 run. "I think I stopped using hand wraps in fights around my last four fights in K-1. I think it was when I fought Kongnapa. Originally, I didn't use wraps in training anyway," he said.

Focus on wrist flexibility and relaxed movement

Yoza linked the change to how his wrist feels in motion. "Without them, I could use my wrist much more freely," he said. "My wrist joint felt more flexible. But when I wrapped them for fights, I couldn't move it the same way. I'd tense up."

He gave a clear example using body shots in boxing range. "For example, when I throw a body shot, in training this part of my wrist moves freely, so I can turn it over and land the punch cleanly with the knuckles. But when it's wrapped all the way here, for me at least, the wrist gets locked," he said.

Key details for Yoza vs Haggerty clash

The title fight will test Yoza’s no-wrap approach at elite level. His preference for wrist freedom will meet Haggerty’s experience at ONE SAMURAI 1, as both men compete for the ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title under full promotional rules.