Filipino bantamweight contender RV Deniega is set for a crucial return to Japan, aiming to conquer a hurdle that has previously eluded him. The 26-year-old will face undefeated Japanese prospect Hijiri Oka in an eight-round bout at the famed Korakuen Hall in Tokyo on January 23, 2026.
A Quest for Redemption in Tokyo
This fight represents a significant opportunity for Deniega to rewrite his history in Japan. His last appearance in Tokyo in 2023 ended in the first defeat of his professional career, a unanimous decision loss to former world title challenger Saul Sanchez. Now, with more experience under his belt, Deniega is determined to claim his inaugural victory on Japanese soil and prove his growth as an international competitor.
Paths to the Present: Fighter Profiles
Deniega, who holds a record of 12 wins and 2 losses with 8 knockouts, has shown resilience. After the setback in Japan, he rebounded strongly in 2024 with consecutive victories in the Philippines against Adrian Lerasan and Jelo Bacalso.
The year 2025 presented both a challenge and a highlight. Deniega earned a shot at the IBO Youth bantamweight title against Charlton Malajika in South Africa. Although he lost by unanimous decision, he finished the year powerfully, scoring a first-round knockout over Anferne Palarca to regain momentum.
Standing in his way is the young and dangerous Hijiri Oka. The 23-year-old Japanese fighter only turned professional last year but has made a stunning impact. Oka boasts a perfect record of 2 wins and 0 losses, with both victories coming by knockout. He announced his arrival with a first-round stoppage of Thailand's Thatsanasin Wongsuwan in his debut, and later repeated the feat with another striking stoppage of Thai boxer Chirawat Phrmma.
Stakes and Expectations for the Clash
This matchup at Korakuen Hall is a classic crossroads fight. For Deniega, it is a chance to re-establish himself as a rising force in the region and erase the memory of his previous Tokyo outing. A win would validate his progress and put him back on a path toward regional titles.
For Oka, it is an opportunity to pass his first major test against an experienced international opponent and accelerate his ascent in the bantamweight division. The contrast in experience—Deniega's 14 professional fights versus Oka's 2—sets the stage for a compelling tactical battle between the Filipino's seasoned approach and the Japanese prospect's explosive power.
The boxing community will be watching closely to see if Deniega's quest for redemption succeeds or if Oka's knockout streak continues on his home turf.
