RIZIN, the premium Japanese mixed martial arts organization, has found itself at the center of uproar after announcing the cancellation of one of its highly anticipated matches scheduled for May 4, 2025, at Tokyo Dome. The rematch between Kota Miura and Tenshin Nasukawa, which promised high emotions and fierce competition, has been deemed off following Miura’s serious injury.
On March 3, 2025, during an emergency press conference, RIZIN CEO Nobuyuki Sakakibara announced, "The match between Kota Miura and Tenshin Nasukawa will not take place due to Miura’s diagnosis of traumatic shoulder instability, which requires six months of rehabilitation." This news shocked both fans and fighters alike, creating swirling sentiments of disappointment and concern over the event's future.
Miura, visibly strained and having arrived at the press conference with his right arm suspended, expressed his deep regrets for the cancellations. "I want to apologize to the fans who were looking forward to the big match on May 4. I fully understand their frustrations and I am equally disappointed," he stated. Miura had reportedly informed Sakakibara of his injury earlier, having succumbed to persistent shoulder issues resulting from repeated dislocations—a condition untreated, but worsening due to unrelenting training.
Following consultations with RIZIN doctors, it was determined he required immediate surgery. Miura underwent the procedure at the end of February and was now focusing on his recovery, which he hopes will allow him to return by year's end. "Only Tenshin Nasukawa can save this event and draw the fans to the Tokyo Dome," Miura stated, acknowledging the pressures on his opponent. He voiced respectful encouragement for Nasukawa, urging him to perform and propel the RIZIN brand forward.
Fans expressed their dismay over the cancellation on social media, with many questioning the viability of holding 'THE MATCH 2' without its flagship matchup. Feedback ranged from disappointment to skepticism, reflecting the unpredictability of the sport and its impacts on audiences. Miura's withdrawal left many wondering if the event could go on smoothly without him, prompting Sakakibara to ponder whether they could still stage the event or reconsider for later dates.
Miura candidly revealed the depth of his battle with injury, admitting to enduring extensive and initially secretive treatment, including PRP injections targeted at muscle repairs and reconstructive procedures to restore mobility. This angling of his return route underlined the athlete’s resolve, mentioning, "Physical stamina is my priority now, and I must attain full health to give fans the matches they deserve." He also openly declared readiness to undergo doping tests should it be required to quench any rumors surrounding his fitness.
Compounded by Miura’s absence, the future of RIZIN's upcoming event now rests uncertainly on its logistics and potential adaptations. Sakakibara emphasized the need for prompt decisions, making clear he was committed to crafting another engaging lineup to solidify the event’s prestige, mentioning, "This is our 10th anniversary, and we hope to transform every setback we have faced during our special celebrations. We need to contact overseas and reassess which fights we can put together to maintain excitement. A chance can manifest from every challenge we face."
While the fight's cancellation stunted some eager expectations, there remains hope for alternative bouts to fill the May schedule—discussions are already underway to create dynamic, engaging matchups. Tied deeply to these sentiments, was also the promise of resilience exhibited by both Miura and Sakakibara, who reiterated their collective vision for sustaining the thrilling atmosphere RIZIN aims to create.
Consequently, as RIZIN continues to navigate this setback, anticipation for future fights remains palpable. Discussions on restructuring upcoming cards suggest there is still potential to delight audiences—perhaps more diverse intricacies will emerge from these challenges than meets the eye. The sport is known for its unpredictability, and adaptability will be key as RIZIN steers through the current tribulations.