The night before: Sophie gets the full Akane treatment

Sophie Schumann spends the night before her professional debut with her friend and flatmate Akane Watanabe. The Japanese-German made sure that the new pro was available for a new life experience.

Akane thinks: “I’ve been spending a lot of time teaching her better manners and the ability to stay calm. Now, I want to make her feel good and confident ahead of the fight. Getting pampered is the reward for her efforts.”

The pair go to the only genuine traditional Japanese restaurant in Munich after Sophie’s weigh-in. For anyone who never had this experience, those restaurants have separate rooms with low tables for each guest or group. It’s your private dining space with personalised service.

Sophie Schumann tea Akane

Akane: “We’re here for something you have never seen before. The tea ceremony. It’s more complex than you expect, but it’s a significant ritual. We’re here for about four hours for tea and a meal. After that, I’m bringing you back home for relaxation. I want you to feel good about yourself before the fight.”

Sophie: “I can’t say no to all that!”

Sophie Schumann tea Akane

The two friends go through a complete ritual. Thin tea and thick tea. A five-course Japanese meal featuring tofu, for the most part. It’s slow and light on calories, so it won’t affect Sophie’s fitness for the next day’s fight. She already had her weigh-in anyway.

Four hours later, the young fighter is impressed.

Sophie: “That’s so nice. I wish I had tried that before.”

Akane: “There’s more to the Japanese experience than the sushi bar and noodles. I’m glad you like this. We can come back with Alesia and Anna in the future, if you wish.”

They take the U-Bahn to get back to their flat.

The next step is just as interesting for Sophie, and even more helpful. Akane brings her to the bedroom and orders her to lie down for an extensive massage.

Sophie Schumann tea Akane

It’s a very demanding task, but the Japanese-German takes the time to massage every part of Sophie’s body, from neck to feet. She applies intense pressure to make her friend’s muscles feel relaxed. She does it so well that once they are finished, Sophie is already asleep. Deep slumber.

Sophie Schumann tea Akane

Akane grins and thinks: “There’s no better way to end things. She trained well. That massage will have good physical effects. She will be super rested and very energetic for the fight. The most important part, though, is mental. She’ll feel supported. Nothing’s more important.”

Sophie Schumann
Sophie Schumann
The little sister of Alesia Schumann is a born troublemaker but supremely talented puncher. Former world champion at Lightweight.