On September 23, ZE:A's Taehun appeared on the recent episode of the MMA (mixed martial arts) fighting program “Crying Fist 4.” His appearance on the program was part of an audition round for “Crying Fist,” making him the first K-Pop idol to attempt MMA.

Taehun appeared hopeful on during the start of the September 23 episode. His appearance on “Crying Fist 4” is of interest, due to the fact that he sustained an injury to his nose during the September 12 taping, that later required surgery.

The injury sustained by Taehun during the taping of “Crying Fist 4” became a key issue in the Twitter campaign launched by ZE:A leader Lee Hoo (Moon Junyoung) against the CEO of Star Empire. Lee Hoo alleged that the match between Taehun was unevenly balanced. He also eluded to numerous attempts on his part to halt the match. 

While the issues between Lee Hoo and Star Empire CEO Shin Joo Hak appear to be temporarily resolved, the September 23 footage of Taehun on “Crying Fist 4” provides context regarding his eagerness to participate in the program.

ZE:A's Lee Hoo cited Taehun's injury throughout the beginning of his Twitter campaign, but it now appears as though Taehun was well aware of the danger he was facing by participating on “Crying Fist 4.”

Taehun strongly expressed his desire to participate as an MMA fighter. He provided an interesting response when asked if he would choose to be a fighter or an idol, stating, “I would choose MMA.”

Taehun also provided further context regarding his appearance on the program. Besides his desire to pursue MMA, he wanted to break preconceived notions that the public has about K-Pop idols.

Unfortunately for Taehun, he was eliminated from the competition by the judges during the recent episode.

While he is no longer on “Crying Fist 4,” fans of Taehun will be pleased to know that he is featured on the original soundtrack for the program.