On May 4, 2025, the highly anticipated RIZIN Otoko Matsuri kicked off at the iconic Tokyo Dome, featuring a thrilling lineup of fights that drew in combat sports fans from all over. The event began with the opening fight at 11:45 AM, setting the stage for an exciting day of mixed martial arts.
Originally slated to be called THE MATCH 2, the event was meant to feature a rematch between Takanori Asakura and Mikuru Asakura as the main card. However, due to Mikuru's injury, the matchup was canceled, leaving organizers to reconfigure the event. RIZIN CEO Nobuyuki Sakakibara announced a new theme for the event, celebrating the 10th anniversary of RIZIN and Takanori Asakura's comeback.
The main event showcased a RIZIN Featherweight title match between current champion Kleber Koike and challenger Radjabali Shaydullaev, while other notable bouts included Asakura's fight against Chihiro Suzuki, and a generational matchup between Daiju Nakamura and Hiroto Sakurada. The event featured a total of 19 matches, including three opening fights and 16 main card bouts.
In the first opening fight, Hashimoto Tatsuya from POWER OF DREAM faced Akahira Taiju from VERTEX in a kickboxing contest. Hashimoto, just 19 years old, demonstrated impressive skill and composure, knocking Akahira down twice in the first round and once more in the second. Despite Akahira's relentless spirit, fighting through a bleeding face, Hashimoto secured a decisive victory with a 3-0 decision. This marked a significant start to the event, with Hashimoto earning the honor of being the first winner at the Tokyo Dome.
As the day progressed, fans eagerly anticipated Takanori Asakura's return to the ring after a prolonged absence. His matchup against Chihiro Suzuki was expected to be a highlight of the night, with the fight estimated to begin around 7:20 PM. Asakura expressed confidence leading up to the fight, stating, "I will win 100%." Suzuki, a former RIZIN Featherweight champion, promised to deliver an entertaining performance, declaring, "I will put on the most exciting fight at Tokyo Dome." This rivalry added an extra layer of excitement to the event, as both fighters looked to prove themselves in front of a massive audience.
In addition to the fights, the event was broadcast live across multiple platforms, including U-NEXT, ABEMA, RIZIN 100 CLUB, and RIZIN LIVE, ensuring that fans could catch all the action from home. ABEMA also offered a pre-event special, featuring commentary and insights into the matches. The PPV tickets for the event were priced at 6,500 yen for early purchases and 6,900 yen on the day of the event, with an archive option available for 4,400 yen.
For those following the event closely, updates on the fight schedule were provided in real-time, with the first main card fight scheduled to begin at 1:00 PM. Fans were encouraged to tune in early to catch the opening ceremonies and the excitement leading up to the main bouts. The atmosphere in the Tokyo Dome was electric, with a full house expected to witness the culmination of months of anticipation.
As the day unfolded, the matches showcased a variety of fighting styles and strategies, with fighters from different backgrounds competing for glory. The event not only celebrated individual talents but also highlighted the growing popularity of MMA in Japan.
Asakura's comeback was particularly significant for fans, as he had been a prominent figure in the RIZIN promotion. His journey back to the ring was filled with challenges, and many were eager to see how he would perform against a formidable opponent like Suzuki. The stakes were high, and both fighters were ready to leave everything in the ring.
In the lead-up to the event, Aoki Shinya, a veteran fighter, shared his insights on the emotional journey fighters experience during weigh-ins and preparations. He emphasized the importance of mental readiness and how each fighter approaches their final moments before stepping into the cage.
The RIZIN Otoko Matsuri was not just a series of fights; it was a celebration of the sport, the fighters, and the fans who support them. With its rich history and dynamic matchmaking, RIZIN continues to capture the hearts of combat sports enthusiasts around the world. As the fights commenced, all eyes were on the Tokyo Dome, where legends could be made and history could unfold.
As the day progressed, updates on the fights continued to roll in, with fans eagerly awaiting the results of each bout. The excitement was palpable as competitors showcased their skills, determination, and the spirit of sportsmanship that defines RIZIN.
In conclusion, the RIZIN Otoko Matsuri on May 4, 2025, promises to be a landmark event in the world of mixed martial arts, with a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars ready to showcase their talents on one of the biggest stages in the sport. Fans can expect thrilling moments, unexpected outcomes, and a celebration of the fighting spirit that RIZIN embodies.
