Mizuki Hiruta, a rising star in Japanese boxing, is making her highly anticipated U.S. debut on January 17, 2025, at Commerce Casino in California against Maribel Ramirez. Known for her undefeated record, dynamic fighting style, and bold fashion sense, Hiruta has already captured fans’ attention in Japan. With aspirations to become a unified and multi-division champion, she aims to solidify her status as an international superstar. Drawing inspiration from legends like Amanda Serrano and Naoya Inoue, Hiruta hopes to inspire a new generation of female athletes while showcasing the technical excellence of Japanese boxing on a global stage.
In this exclusive one-on-one interview, Mizuki Hiruta shares insights into her personality, goals, and style.
Und1sptd: Hi Mizuki, thank you for your time. Und1sptd is a Boxing Magazine with a focus on Luxury Streetwear culture and style. By connecting our audiences by shared interests, we aim to connect fighters with brands and companies that align with their personal goals for mutually beneficial partnerships. We have a few questions for you…
Mizuki: Hello, thank you. I do not speak English, so please forgive any mistakes.
First off, what is your overall goal in boxing?
There are three: to become a unified champion, to win a title in a different weight class, and to fight in major venues like Japan’s biggest arenas and Las Vegas. I want to be a superstar.
Are there any opponents that you’re currently interested in fighting?
I want to unify my division by fighting the current champions.
Who are your top 5 pound-for-pound fighters in the world?
Rather than the official pound-for-pound rankings, these are fighters who suit my taste: for women, Amanda Serrano. For men, Terence Crawford, Gervonta Davis, Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez, Junto Nakatani, and Kenshiro Teraji.
We’re all so excited for your U.S. debut. Can you share more about your upcoming fight?
On January 17th, I will fight at Commerce Casino. I regularly train in Los Angeles, and I want to have more fights in America in the future.
We love your colorful wardrobe and personality. How would you describe your overall style?
I focus on making sure the audience enjoys my performance. My costumes are designed to make me shine in the ring. In the ring, I want to express myself as much as possible and be the brightest person there. I always aim to be a superstar.
You’ve been photographed in popular streetwear brands like BAPE and Supreme. What other streetwear brands do you love?
I love both BAPE and Supreme, as well as sports brands like Adidas and Nike. I’m also a fan of Ice Cream and Stüssy. Streetwear is great because it’s free in size and style, allowing me to express my personality. I’m also a big fan of Hello Kitty and even have Hello Kitty clothes.
Thank you for your service in the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) of Japan! How did your time in the SDF prepare you for professional boxing?
I trained with heavy equipment, practiced strength-building drills, and even camped in the mountains. These experiences made me mentally and physically stronger. After losing the final round of the Tokyo Olympics qualifiers, I decided to focus on professional boxing. I wanted to use my fists to bring happiness to myself and those around me.
Women in sports are gaining popularity. What advice would you give to young girls pursuing their dreams?
Remember that you are special. Everyone is unique. Try anything you’re interested in, as it might work out. Even if you fail, you’ll grow from the experience. Live fully in the present so you can look back with pride. And always remember to be thankful and keep smiling—it’ll work out in the end!
Do you have a makeup and skincare routine?
I love makeup and enjoy researching and collecting products. Makeup helps me feel more confident. For skincare, I use face masks daily and follow Korean skincare practices. Losing weight can sometimes make me feel tired, but I stay consistent with my routine. [Laughs]
When preparing for a fight or sparring, is there a mental state you aim for? Any music you listen to?
I try to stay focused and determined. Fear and nervousness are natural, but I accept them and use them to sharpen my reactions. Once I’m in the ring, I remind myself, “It’ll work out somehow!” I like listening to Ken Yokoyama’s “Let the Beat Carry On” and XG.
Japanese culture is very popular in the U.S. What are some of your favorite foods and snacks from Japan?
Beef tongue is delicious. I also recommend gyoza, okonomiyaki, and monjayak.
You’ve been training in Los Angeles. Have you fallen in love with any part of West Coast culture? Did you try Mexican street tacos?
I love Mexican food, especially tacos. I also adore tortilla chips, which are hard to find in Japan, so I bought some to take home. I could eat Mexican food every day. I even love jalapeños!
What are five everyday necessities you can’t go without?
Delicious Japanese rice, my mobile phone to stay connected, cool and cute clothes, boxing gloves, and a smile!
