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Yoko Gushiken (具志堅
用高 Gushiken Yōko,June 26,
1955-) was a professional Boxing|boxer from
1974-1981.  His professional record is 23-1 and he
held the title of WBA jr. flyweight champion
1976-1981.

Gushiken is known for having a strong stamina,
allowing him to pressure opponents into mistakes
after many rounds.  His southpaw stance allowed
him to take advantage of many mistakes, usually by
throwing unexpected combinations of punches
instead of waiting for counterpunch opportunities.

His popularity centered in his home country of
Japan, where he was known by the nickname Fierce
Eagle and crowds were normally sold out.  He
quickly rose through the amateur ranks and won
All-Japan in high school.  After that, he went pro
and went for the WBA flyweight crown after just
nine fights.  He defeated Juan Guzman, a
well-seasoned pro, by knockout in the seventh
round.  He held the championship for over four
years.  In thirteen defenses, he won eight by
knockout.

Panamanian Jaime Rios nearly defeated Gushiken in
multiple fights, but lost after wilting in the
last rounds of each match.  Other defeats of note
were against future champions Alfonso Lopez and
Rafael Pedroza.  As with Rios, they lost after
many rounds of being worn down by Gushiken.

In his thirteenth title defense, he fought Mexican
Pedro Florez, winning by a close margin.  In the
rematch, Florez was better at reserving his energy
and defeated Gushiken by knockout in the twelve
round.  Many expected Gushiken to return to the
ring, but he announced his retirement five months
after his loss.  While he does not box anymore, he
remains a popular figure in Japan.


==Biography ==
Yoko Gushiken was born in Okinawa, Japan.


== See also ==
*List of male boxers