After twice knocking out the Japanese, the first time in a mere 34 seconds in the world title bout in 2002, another victory over his old rival looks highly likely for Pongsaklek, who will turn 30 in August.

Daisuke Naito has a 30-2-2 record - 30 wins, two draws and two losses, while Pongsaklek has scored 65 wins (with some 34 knockouts) and two losses.

If the fighter from Nakhon Ratchasima succeeds in his 18th title defence, he would be just one win from a long-standing record - the 19 title defences achieved by the legendary Khaosai Galaxy.

Meanwhile, manager Piyarat Vajiratanawongse said Pongsaklek would travel to Japan without trainer Phayak Cho Pimol, who is due to undergo surgery for a cataract problem at the time of the fight. Piyarat conceded he was anxious the absence of Phayak. But his fears were allayed as the trainer had prepared a fight plan for the Naito bout. Assistant trainer Jimmy Sidthpaidaeng would accompany Pongsaklek instead.

Phayak felt Pongsaklek would successfully defend his title, which he wrested from Filipino Malcolm Tunacao way back in 2001.

"From my experience of working with Pongsaklek, I'm not at all concerned about the fight. I strongly believe that he won't let his fans down.

"He [Pongsaklek] is very disciplined in training and that will put him in good stead when he faces Naito. He will also have the experienced Jimmy, who has been an assistant trainer for many former Thai champions including Khaosai [Galaxy]," Phayak said.

Pongsaklek said: "I don't have any concerns even though it may "feel strange not to have my trainer at the corner. Phayak has already prepared everything for me. I'm confident I will return home with the belt."

Pongsaklek will fight Naito at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo on July 18.

Meanwhile, convicted drug seller and WBC female light flyweight champion Siriporn Thaveesuk is set to be released from custody after the Corrections Department decided to grant her early parole on June 13.

However, Siriporn, who has 21 more months remaining, will have to report to the agency each month.

The pint-sized Siriporn, alias Samson Sor Siriporn, who won the title by defeating Ayaka Miyano of Japan in April, is also in line to get her name in the 'Guinness Book of Records' - as the first prisoner to claim a world title.