Kazuo Kobayashi

Kazuo “Royal” Kobayashi was a Japanese boxer who fought at the 1972 München Olympics. He turned professional in 1973, winning his début against Baron Kumazawa by decision. In October 1975 Kobayashi fought the renowned Alexis Arguello for the WBA featherweight championship but lost by knockout.

Kobayashi became the WBC super-bantamweight champion in October 1976 by winning by TKO over Rigoberto Riasco, but he lost his first attempt at a defense, losing a 15-round decision to Yum Dong-Kyun. He attempted to regain the title in January 1978 but lost by third-round knockout to Wilfredo Gómez. He also fought for the WBA featherweight crown in January 1979 but lost to Eusebio Pedroza when he retired after the 13th round.

Kobayashi later became the OPBF featherweight champion, a lesser title, holding the title from April 1978 to the end of his career in October 1981. Known as Royal Kobayashi throughout his professional career, he retired with a pro record of 35 wins and 8 losses.