Rizin is gearing up to kick off the year with an exciting event, Rizin 52, set to take place this weekend. The main event features former Bellator champion and UFC competitor Patchy Mix facing off against rising Japanese star Kyoma Akimoto, promising an action-packed showdown. The co-main event is particularly special for MMA fans, as it highlights a matchup rooted in PRIDE lineage. Luiz Gustavo, a disciple of MMA legend Wanderlei Silva, will compete against Taisei Sakuraba, the son of the iconic Kazushi Sakuraba.
The card features a variety of compelling matchups, including former UFC fighter Carlos Mota squaring off against crafty striker Yuki Ito. A notable generational clash will occur as 48-year-old veteran Hideo Tokoro takes on 24-year-old grappling sensation Jinnosuke Kashimura. Moreover, the former LFA bantamweight champion, John Sweeney, is set to battle the experienced veteran Shoko Sato.
For newcomers to Rizin, the promotion distinguishes itself through unique rules, allowing knees and soccer kicks to a downed opponent, and fights are judged based on overall performance rather than round by round. This event will also take place in a traditional ring setting, adding to its distinctive atmosphere.
The Rizin 52 event will begin at different times depending on the viewer’s location, with North American viewers able to tune in on March 6 at 9 p.m. PT or March 7 at 12 a.m. ET. Rizin is making it more convenient for fans to catch their events through multiple viewing options.
For those interested in a comprehensive experience, the Rizin Premium Pass is available for USD $16.99 per month, which not only includes access to pay-per-view events but also Rizin’s past shows. Alternatively, fans can choose to purchase the individual PPV for USD $19.99, which also allows on-demand access for 14 days.
For an authentic Japanese viewing experience, viewers can consider Rizin Live, which accepts international credit cards, offering advance tickets for 5500 yen and day-of purchases for 6000 yen. Additionally, Rizin often streams some opening fights on their YouTube channel, providing a great way for fans to get a taste of the action.
Rizin 52’s full card promises a spectacular lineup, featuring:
– Kyoma Akimoto vs Patchy Mix
– Luiz Gustavo vs Taisei Sakuraba
– Ryo Takagi vs Shuya Kimura
– Viktor Kolesnik vs Koji Takeda
– Saori Oshima vs Kate Lotus
– Yuki Ito vs Carlos Mota
– Hideo Tokoro vs Jinnosuke Kashimura
– Kyung Po Kim vs Yusuke Yachi
– Shoko Sato vs John Sweeney
– Takaki Soya vs Tony Laramie
– Jo Arai vs Jung Hyun Lee
– Noel vs Bo Mi Lee
With its exciting matchups and distinctive rules, Rizin 52 is shaping up to be an unforgettable event for MMA enthusiasts around the globe.