As we have discussed in previous articles, Deep Jewels has really been showcasing their new talent recently. I cannot remember a time when they had so many young or debuting fighters. During this exciting time, Akihito Tatematsu, who often contributes photos to this site, was able to interview an amateur named Saki. Saki trains at the famed Krazy Bee gym in Tokyo and made quite the impression on Akihito and I in her last match, which she won by armbar.
Saki will be competing again for Deep Jewels, on December 19th, so we thought this would be a good opportunity to introduce her to you guys. Please enjoy our interview:
AT: Ok, can you start by telling us your background in martial arts?
Saki: I have no prior experience in martial arts. Actually, I’ve been skateboarding, biking, and snowboarding as sports. I’ve been in a martial arts gym for a year and a half, but actually I fractured my leg after the first half a month so my actual experience is less than a year. I’m doing speciality classes 5 or 6 days a week, so every-time I feel so appreciative that this is my experience and that I have the support of so many people around me.
AT: Can you remember the first time you saw mixed martial arts? Do you remember what fight it was and are there any fighters you currently like?
Saki: I watched Royce Gracie’s match at PRIDE in 2000 because of my parents’ influence and my favorite fighter is Demetrius Johnson.
AT: How would you describe your style and what do you think your next match (12.19) is going to be like?
Saki: I haven’t established my own fighting style yet, but I’d like to be a nice player who is always trying to aggressively take my opponent down. For the next match, I think that will be very hard and tough for me as my opponent has great striking. Please look forward to it as i’ll be taking various measures and facing challenges.
AT: Do you have any goals for next year? What are your long term goals?
Saki: I’m still in development and there’s a lot of things I’ve missed. So I want to increase the number variations on techniques I know and get more experience. To be honest, I have no long-term goals yet. I think my goal is to go till I feel my limits. At that time, I’ll imagine what my next step might be.
AT: How is your training schedule, what is it like training at Krazy Bee?
Saki: To tell the truth, I feel very sad because of a lot of the teachers left who took care of me. However, my daily life hasn’t changed and my teammates are respectful and we have a good relationship and trust each other. As for my schedule, I take a generalized class every night. There is a huge mat space that allows for a relaxing practice. Also there are a many male athletes there so it trains my mental strength too.
AT: What do you do when you aren’t training? Do you have any hobbies?
Saki: On my off days, I’ve been trail running, swimming (especially in the sea during the summer season) and getting in touch with nature, I love doing these things so much. After all, I am doing some physical exercise everytime…haha
AT: Another non-fighting question, what is your favorite food, drink, and type of music?
Saki: My favorite food is South Indian curry and my favorite thing to drink is Red Bull, which is the source of my energy. And my favorite music is like techno.
AT: I also like Indian curry.
Saki: I like Indian curry too much, I even went there for it.
AT: Do you have any message for the fans or any comments?
Saki: I would be very happy if someone would become my fan in the future. So I’d like to say that for my lovely teammates. Please watch me because I so crazy!!!
Please follow Saki on Instagram
You can watch her next fight on PPV
Japanese 
English