TOKYO — Universal Kickboxing Federation junior-welterweight champion David Archuleta lost by decision to Yasuhiro Kazuya of Japan’s K-1 circuit on Tuesday at Nippon Budokan.

Archuleta, 22, a senior airman from Albuquerque, N.M., assigned to Kadena Air Base’s 733rd Air Mobility Squadron, said he was “embarrassed” by the defeat and fought at “only 40 to 50 percent” of his ability.

“I was not able to show everyone what I can really do,” Archuleta said adding he only trained one day for the bout. He was notified Sunday.

His UKF title was not on the line, Archuleta said.

“I would have never accepted a defending match with only two days’ notice,” he said.

Archuleta fell to 17-3-1 with 11 knockouts after his first bout since knocking out Steve Satterwhite for the UKF title June 15 at Differ Ariake Arena.

Archuleta was slated to fight International Sports Karate Association middleweight champion Tatayuki Kohiruimaki on Aug. 30 at Club Velfarre in the Roppongi entertainment district.

But Archuleta became ill Aug. 20 and was forced to cancel.

He’ll get his chance against Kohiruimaki Jan. 24 at a site to be determined, he said.

“I’m looking forward to meeting him in the ring,” Archuleta said.

Archuleta has been assigned to Kadena since 1999. He began kickboxing as an amateur after moving to the base, then turned pro two years later.

Migrated