In addition to Fedor, 'new PRIDE' confirms Sakaruba and GP worth R$2 million

RFF collective brought together athletes and managers in Japan. Photo: Reproduction

When former PRIDE president Nobuyui Sakakibara announced he would launch a new event and be attended by Fedor Emelianenko, the world of MMA was in an uproar. Now, those most nostalgic have even more reasons to be excited about the “Rizin Fighting World Grand Prix 2015”, the name given to the tournament.

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This is because, in a press conference held in Japan, the director confirmed that the organization will promote an event along the lines of the old PRIDE in terms of rules, with strikes such as stomps and goal shots being allowed, and fights held in rings, and no cages. However, Sakakibara assured that the clashes will be held in a “ring like never before”, without giving further details of the news.

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Furthermore, one of the biggest names in Japanese MMA of all time, veteran Kazushi Sakuraba will fight against one of the biggest Asian stars today, ONE FC champion Shinia Aoki. “Gracie Hunter”, as Sakuraba became known after beating several representatives of the most important family in world jiu-jitsu, actually stole the show at the press conference with one of his traditional masks kabuki.

Finally, the last confirmation made by the director about the event is that it will feature a Grand Prix, with no defined weight category yet, which will award its winner with a check for US$500 (almost R$2 million at the current rate). The Japanese event will have the support of several Western organizations, such as Bellator, KSW, BAMMA and Jungle Fight, whose directors were also present at the press conference.

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The “Rizin Fighting World Grand Prix 2015” will be held on December 29th and 31st, at the Saitama Super Arena, in Japan. In addition to Fedor Emelianenko and Kazushi Sakuraba, Shinia Aoki, the event will also feature fighters Gabi Garcia, Brazilian world jiu-jitsu champion, and Rena Kubota, whose opponents have not yet been confirmed.