RIZIN Fighting Federation Helps Local Fighters Rise to the Occasion

The group also announced the return of legendary fighter, Floyd Mayweather Jr. to the ring for an exhibition fight against Japan’s Mikuru Asakura

RIZIN Fighting Federation announced that legendary American boxer, Floyd Mayweather Jr. will return to the ring for an exhibition match against celebrated Japanese MMA fighter, Mikuru Asakura. The exhibition fight will punch in at Saitama Super Arena in Saitama Prefecture in Japan. Tickets for the exhibition match are now available for sale at https://jp.rizinff.com/_ct/17564086 (website in Japanese only).

“We’re honored to be able to bring together two legendary fighters – Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Mikuru Asakura for a once-in-a-lifetime match,” said Nobuyuki Sakakibara, CEO of RIZIN Fighting Federation. “Those that follow fighting and are passionate about the sport will not want to miss this event.”

RIZIN Fighting Federation also announced it will hold an annual MMA event in Hawaii beginning in summer 2023.  The event will provide Hawaii fighters with global exposure and experience. Those interested in participating are invited to participate in tryouts on September 1, 2022, at Hawaii Elite MMA & Fitness in Waipahu. 

“We truly believe in Hawaii and that the untapped talent here can elevate the islands on the world stage for MMA and fighting,” added Sakakibara. 

Floyd Joy Mayweather Jr. is a legendary American boxing champion and promoter. He competed as a professional fighter between 1996 and 2017, retiring with an undefeated record. Mayweather has won a bronze medal in the featherweight division at the 1996 Olympics, three U.S. Golden Gloves championships (at light flyweight, flyweight, and featherweight), and the U.S. national championship at featherweight. 

Mikuru Asakura is a two weight MMA champion in Japan. He made his RIZIN debut on August 12, 2018, during RIZIN 12. Mikuru faced former Shooto featherweight champion and Japanese MMA legend, Hatsu Hioki in his debut fight. He followed his debut with a string of six straight wins, against both domestic and foreign competitors.

For more information on the RIZIN Fighting Federation, visit https://jp.rizinff.com.