Former K-1 Champion “The Purple Comet” Hiromi Wajima is ready to write another chapter in his martial arts journey after recently signing with ONE Championship.
Following years competing at the highest level of Japanese kickboxing, the 30-year-old star was introduced as the newest addition to the elite roster in the world’s largest martial arts organization earlier this week.
While Wajima looks to prove himself worthy of being counted among the planet’s best strikers on ONE’s global stage, “The Purple Comet” is keeping World Title glory firmly in his sights.
But before he steps inside the Circle, here are five things to know about the Japanese kickboxing sensation.
#1 He’s A Multi-Time K-1 Champion
Hiromi Wajima captured the K-1 Super Welterweight Championship in December 2021 with a third-round knockout of nemesis Minoru Kimura in their heated trilogy matchup.
The 30-year-old then went on to defend his crown twice by beating five-time Rajadamnern Stadium World Champion Jomthong Chuwattana via technical knockout at K-1 World GP 2023: K’Festa 6. Months later, he finished Dutch veteran Jordann Pikeur at K-1 World GP 2023, proving his reign as the division’s king was no fluke.
Wajima’s golden credentials speak volumes about his world-class striking ability, and it will certainly come in handy against the world-class opposition in ONE.
#2 He’s A Proven Knockout Machine
Wajima has built his reputation on scoring spectacular highlight-reel finishes against the best of the best, racking up 18 knockout wins across his 22 professional victories for an impressive 82 percent clip.
But what makes the Japanese star truly dangerous is the variety of weapons in his arsenal. He doesn’t rely on one signature technique. Instead, the former K-1 Champion ends fights with a variety of kicks, knees, and punches.
His knockout performance against Yuhei Fujioka in December 2020 showcased everything he plans to unpack inside the Circle when he finally makes his ONE debut.
The Gesshinkai Team Samurai floored his foe with a left hook barely a minute into the contest. Immediately after the restart, he sent his foe back to the canvas twice with a flying knee and a crushing straight left.
Wajima’s coup de grace came via a left head kick at the 2:03 mark of the first round.
With finishes like that on his resume, expect Wajima to be in constant pursuit of an explosive ending against whoever he finds himself in the ring with.
#3 He Has Some Cool Fight Monikers
Even the best fighters have just one memorable nickname, but Wajima has been adorned with three over the course of his 28-fight resume that perfectly capture his style and craft.
“The Purple Comet” evokes speed and explosive power, which is fitting for a striker who can end fights in spectacular fashion. “Proud Lone Samurai” captures his Japanese warrior spirit while embodying the traditional values of honor and courage.
Meanwhile, “Wajimax” is a creative twist on his surname that Japanese fans have embraced throughout his career.
#4 He Has Honed His Skills With The Very Best
Hiromi Wajima has sought out the absolute best striking talent in the world to help him sharpen his weapons.
The Japanese striker has trained alongside the likes of ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Champion Superbon and multi-time World Champion Sitthichai “Killer Kid” Sitsongpeenong during previous visits to Bangkok, Thailand.
“The Purple Comet” has also honed his kickboxing craft alongside fellow Japanese veteran and former K-1 Champion Rukiya “Demolition Man” Anpo.
Both Anpo and Superbon will see action at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri inside Tokyo’s Ariake Arena on Sunday, November 16, so you can be sure Wajima will be watching their fights closely.
#5 He’s A Complete Striking Technician
Wajima’s striking isn’t built on standard kickboxing fundamentals alone. His technical foundation runs much deeper into Japan’s rich martial arts heritage.
The 30-year-old holds a 1st Dan black belt in Karate, a 2nd Dan black belt in Kendo, and a 3rd Dan black belt in Nippon Kempo, giving him a diverse martial arts background that colors every technique he throws.
Those traditional martial arts disciplines taught him timing, distance management, and body mechanics — all of which he’s put to good use throughout his 11-year career.
Between Wajima’s eye-catching nicknames, devastating power, and well-rounded arsenal, he checks every box fans want in an elite striker.
He came to ONE to prove he belongs among the absolute best fighters in the world, and his track record suggests he’ll do exactly that when he finally steps inside the Circle.
Stay tuned to onefc.com for any news surrounding his debut fight in ONE.
AloJapan.com