Q) Please tell us about JUNGLE FIGHT.

JUNGLE FIGHT is the biggest promotion in Latin America that holds 90% share in Brazil. It is the event that gets the highest ratings, aired on network television, 3 countries in South America and ESPN in USA. JUNGLE FIGHTS has produced UFC champions such as Jose Aldo, Fabricio Werdum, and signed more than 100 fighters in the UFC.

Q) What were your thoughts when you first heard about this project?

It looked like the Japanese fight scene has stopped when PRIDE was finished. There were other promotions here and there, but they weren’t a comparison to PRIDE. PRIDE was an event that was accepted in America, Europe, all over the world. I was very sad to see such event disappear all of a sudden. But those days are finally coming back. This event will be an event where all Japanese people can be proud of. I believe this event will become an event where it will represent the Japanese mentality and spirit.

Q) How do you feel, now that you are officially participating in RIZIN?

Mr. Sakakibara is a promoter who has hosted the world’s biggest shows. I believe that this will be an amazing event because he will be promoting it. If RIZIN succeeds, the MMA industry will grow, and that will lead to the increase of this sport’s popularity not only in Japan, but all over the world. The only person able to make it happen is Mr. Sakakibara. He is the man who built history. I used to work with him as a fighter, so I am very happy to be able to be with him for the beginning of a new chapter.

Q) What can you expect from RIZIN?

A big event like PRIDE will be come back even bigger and powerful. You will be able to see the world’s top athletes gather in one spot, and to prove it I will bring my best young prospect that will surprise Japan, and I will hold a 100kg title fight on October 24th and the winner will coming to Japan on NYE. I have always loved the Japanese fans because they respect the fighters so much. And I am sure that this event will become an event where it will satisfy you. Please look forward to New Year’s Eve.

JUNGLE FIGHT Official Site：http://www.junglefc.com.br/