Hoshina the 'biggest loser' at 120 kg

MANILA, Philippines - Tomohiko Hoshina, the Fil-Japanese judoka who competed in the recent London Olympics, isn’t sure yet whether or not he’s calling it quits.

In London, Hoshina mentioned retirement following his early exit in the +100 kg class where was totally outclassed by his South Korean rival.

San Su-min literally threw Hoshina out of the competition by scoring an ippon (full point) very early in their round-of-32 match. 

Hoshina was gone in 60 seconds.

Yet, when the 25-year-old Hoshina visited the Philippine Judo Federation gym at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex the other day, he sounded hopeful.

He was asked about retirement.

“No decision. No decision,” the fighter who lived all his life in Japan said in broken English. 

Hoshina flew home to Japan yesterday to be with his mother, who hails from Malolos, Bulacan. His father, a Japanese serviceman, passed away when he was in his teens.

Hoshina said he’s not sure if he could represent the Philippines in the 2013 SEA Games in Myanmar because his weight class is not in the calendar of events.

If he drops down in weight, and it may take a lot of effort, then he can vie in the under 100 kg class.

“No SEA Games plus-100 kg,” said Hoshina, who came to the gym wearing a London Olympics t-shirt, accompanied by a couple of Japanese judokas. 

Hoshina weighed over 120 kg, looked more like a sumo wrestler and talked like Japanese. But said it was an honor to represent the Philippines in the London Olympics.

However, he admitted he was not happy with his performance.

“No technique. No power. Not my best,” said Hoshina, who came to the gym to visit Philippine judo star John Baylon. He handed Baylon a gift from London.

“I have to do better,” said Hoshina if indeed he decides to continue wearing the Philippine flag in future international competitions.

Hoshina did not say more as he shied away.

“Not good English.Thank you,” he said.