Who was Guts Ishimatsu?

A Japanese boxing legend who won the WBC lightweight title and defended it five times with his 'Phantom Right' punch.

What was the 'Phantom Right'?

A lightning-fast right straight after a left jab, so quick it seemed to appear out of nowhere.

What did he do after retiring?

He became an actor and TV personality, famous for roles in 'Oshin' and catchphrases like 'OK Bokujō!'.

Is there a connection to 'Berserk'?

Yes, the manga's protagonist 'Guts' was named in honor of Guts Ishimatsu by creator Kentaro Miura.

How old was he and what was his cause of death?

He passed away at 76 due to pneumonia on June 2, 2023, in Tokyo.

Former World Boxing Champion Guts Ishimatsu Passes Away at 76, 'Phantom Right' Legacy Endures

Published Jun 11, 2026 7:22 PM ・ Updated Jun 27, 2026 8:36 PM ・ 4 min read ・ Source: CNA (Central News Agency)

Guts Ishimatsu, Japan's former WBC lightweight world champion famed for his 'Phantom Right' punch combination, has died at age 76 from pneumonia. A legendary boxer and later a beloved actor and entertainer, he left a lasting legacy across sports and pop culture.

WBC Boxing Classic Special Report

Central News Bulletin

(Tokyo, 11th, Central News Agency) - Guts Ishimatsu, the Japanese former professional boxing world champion renowned for his 'Phantom Right' — a lightning-fast right straight punch following a left jab — passed away on June 2 at a Tokyo hospital due to pneumonia. He was 76 years old.

According to NHK and Nikkan Sports, Ishimatsu was born in Tochigi Prefecture. His real name was Yuji Suzuki. He turned professional in 1966 and captured the WBC lightweight world title in April 1974, defeating Mexico's then-champion Rodolfo 'Gato' Gonzalez in his third world title challenge.

His signature technique, a deceptive and powerful right straight delivered immediately after a left jab, earned him the nickname 'Phantom Right.' With this weapon, he successfully defended his world title five times, cementing his place in Japanese boxing history. He officially retired in 1978.

After retirement, Ishimatsu transitioned into acting and entertainment. He appeared in numerous TV dramas and films, including NHK's iconic morning drama 'Oshin,' and became a household name through frequent appearances on variety shows. His catchphrases, such as 'OK牧场!' (OK Bokujō!), made him a beloved cross-generational figure in Japan.

Notably, Kentaro Miura, the late creator of the legendary dark fantasy manga 'Berserk,' named the protagonist 'Guts' as a tribute to Ishimatsu, reflecting the boxer's profound cultural impact beyond the ring.

His agency confirmed that Ishimatsu peacefully passed away on June 2 at a hospital in Tokyo due to pneumonia, marking the end of a legendary life.

(Translator: Li Jing / Proofreader: Zhang Zhengqian) 1150611

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Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
Category: Taiwan
Organizations: NHK

Former World Boxing Champion Guts Ishimatsu Passes Away at 76, 'Phantom Right' Legacy Endures

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