Kohei Kono, known as “Tough Boy,” is a retired Japanese professional boxer who made a significant impact in the super-flyweight division.
With a career spanning over 17 years, Kono’s journey in boxing is characterized by determination, skill, and notable achievements.
This article will teach you about Kohei Kono’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Kohei Kono’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Kohei Kono |
| Nickname | Tough Boy |
| Born | November 23, 1980 |
| Age | 43 |
| College | N/A |
| Weight(s) | Super flyweight |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Height | 167 cm (5 ft 6 in) |
| Net Worth | Approximately $1 million |
| Salary | Varies by fight |
| Wife | N/A |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| Stance | Orthodox |
Early career
In his early career, Kono won the Japanese super flyweight title and later the OPBF title.
His first shot at a world title came in September 2008 against Nobuo Nashiro for the WBA super-flyweight title.
Although he lost that fight by split decision, it marked the beginning of his rise in the boxing world.
Professional Career
Kono’s professional career saw him become a 2-time WBA super-flyweight champion between 2012 and 2016.
He successfully defended his title three times before losing it to Luis Concepción in a unification bout.
His final fight was against Naoya Inoue in December 2016, where he was stopped in the sixth round.
Kohei Kono’s Net Worth Details
Kohei Kono’s net worth is estimated to be $1 million as of 2025.
Fight Purses
Kohei Kono’s fight purses reflect his status as a former world champion. Here’s a summary of his notable earnings:
| Opponent | Purse | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Toshiaki Nitta | N/A | 2000 |
| Nobuo Nashiro | N/A | 2008 |
| Kōki Kameda | $150,000 | 2013 |
| Luis Concepción | $300,000 | 2016 |
| Naoya Inoue | $150,000 | 2016 |
Endorsements
- Sponsorships from local brands.
- Promotions during fight events.
- Merchandise sales related to his boxing career.
Career Records
Kono faced many notable opponents throughout his career. Here’s a look at some of his significant fights:
| Opponent | Result | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Nobuo Nashiro | Loss (SD) | September 15, 2008 |
| Kōki Kameda | Win (UD) | May 6, 2014 |
| Luis Concepción | Loss (UD) | August 2016 |
| Naoya Inoue | Loss (TKO) | December 30, 2016 |
FAQs
1. Who is Kohei Kono?
Kohei Kono is a retired Japanese professional boxer born on November 23, 1980. He is a two-time WBA super-flyweight world champion, holding the title between 2012 and 2016.
2. What is Kohei Kono’s professional boxing record?
Kono’s career record stands at 33 wins (14 by knockout), 12 losses, and 1 draw. He competed in a total of 46 professional bouts.
3. When did Kohei Kono make his professional debut?
Kono debuted on November 22, 2000, at the age of 19, losing to Toshiaki Niita by majority decision.
4. What are Kohei Kono’s most notable achievements?
He won the WBA super-flyweight title twice, first in December 2012 by defeating Tepparith Singwancha via a fourth-round knockout and successfully defended it three times.
5. What was Kohei Kono’s fighting style?
Kono fought in an orthodox stance, utilizing his right hand as his power hand. He was known for his stamina and relentless fighting style.
6. Who were some of Kohei Kono’s most famous opponents?
Notable opponents include Naoya Inoue, Koki Kameda, Luis Concepción, and Rex Tso. He defeated Kameda in a high-profile bout in 2015 but lost to Inoue in 2016.
7. When was Kohei Kono’s last fight?
His final fight took place on May 19, 2018, against Jason Moloney in Australia, where he lost via a sixth-round retirement.
8. How long was Kohei Kono’s boxing career?
Kono’s professional career spanned over 17 years, from November 2000 to May 2018.
9. What is Kohei Kono’s nickname?
He is nicknamed “Tough Boy,” reflecting his resilience and determination in the ring.
10. Has Kohei Kono retired from boxing?
Yes, Kohei Kono retired after his last fight in May 2018 at the age of 37.




