RIZIN Fighting Federation is set to deliver two thrilling events in May, highlighted by championship bouts and the commencement of the heavyweight grand prix tournament.
On May 4th in Tokyo, RIZIN Otokomatsuri will see featherweight champion Kleber Koike defend his title against the undefeated Razhabali Shaydullaev in the main event. Koike regained his championship in December with a victory over Chihiro Suzuki, while Shaydullaev boasts a perfect 12-0 professional record.
RIZIN Otokomatsuri will also showcase a highly anticipated lightweight clash between Japanese stars Chihiro Suzuki and Mikuru Asakura, in addition to the opening round of the heavyweight grand prix.
The heavyweight grand prix will feature former sumo wrestler Tsuyoshi Sudario against Bellator veteran Jose Augusto, and Marek Samociuk, formerly of KSW, taking on Daniel James, who has competed in both Bellator and PFL. The remaining quarterfinal matchups include Islambek Baktybek Uulu versus Alexander Soldatkin and Mikio Ueda versus Shoma Shibisai.
Three weeks later, on May 31st, RIZIN will head to South Korea for an event where 155-pound champion Roberto Satoshi Souza will defend his belt against Won Bi Kim, a former Road to UFC participant. Furthermore, UFC veteran and RIZIN commentator Johnny Case will return to the ring to face Juri Ohara.
See below for the complete fight cards.
