RIZIN 2023: My Unforgettable Journey Through Japan’s Premier MMA Spectacle!

Hey everyone! If you know me, you know I’m an absolute fanatic for mixed martial arts. But there’s MMA, and then there’s RIZIN. This Japanese promotion holds a special place in my heart, and let me tell you, 2023 was an absolute rollercoaster of emotions, jaw-dropping finishes, and unforgettable moments that solidified its spot as one of the most unique and exciting combat sports organizations on the planet.

From the legendary Saitama Super Arena to various electrifying venues across Japan, RIZIN 2023 delivered pure, unadulterated combat sports magic. For me, it wasn’t just about watching fights; it was about immersing myself in the spectacle, the culture, and the sheer passion that only RIZIN can provide. So, grab a snack, settle in, and let me walk you through my personal highlights and reflections on an incredible year of RIZIN action!

Why RIZIN Isn’t Just “Another MMA Promotion”

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of 2023, let’s talk about why RIZIN stands out. It’s more than just an MMA show; it’s a cultural phenomenon. The production values are off the charts, the ring announcer is iconic, and the mix of rules (traditional MMA, kickboxing, sometimes even grappling showcases) keeps you on the edge of your seat. Plus, the Japanese fans bring an energy and respect that’s truly unparalleled.

“There’s an aesthetic and an ethos to RIZIN that makes it truly special,” once remarked a seasoned combat sports journalist. “It’s a blend of high-octane action, theatrical presentation, and deeply embedded martial arts tradition that you won’t find anywhere else.” And after watching RIZIN 2023 unfold, I couldn’t agree more. Each event felt like a grand celebration of combat, not just a series of bouts.

My Top Fights & Moments of RIZIN 2023

It’s genuinely hard to pick favorites, but a few moments from RIZIN 2023 are etched into my memory. These weren’t just great fights; they were experiences that resonated with me profoundly.

Here’s my personal rundown of some standout RIZIN 2023 moments:

RIZIN.40: Bellator vs. RIZIN (New Year’s Eve Spectacle!)
Kicking off the year with a bang, the highly anticipated cross-promotional event was a dream come true for many fans, including myself. While the overall team score leaned heavily one way, the individual matchups were thrilling. I remember sitting there, practically vibrating with excitement, seeing fighters from two major promotions finally clash. The atmosphere was electric, even through my TV screen!
RIZIN LANDMARK 5: Kai Asakura vs. Juan Archuleta
This bantamweight title fight was everything I hoped for and more! Archuleta, a former Bellator champion, came to Japan and put on a clinic against the beloved Kai Asakura. The tactical brilliance, the exchanges, and the sheer determination from both fighters made it a truly compelling contest. Seeing Archuleta claim the belt in enemy territory was a testament to his skill and grit.
RIZIN.43: Kleber Koike Erbst vs. Chihiro Suzuki
While Kleber sadly missed weight, relinquishing his featherweight title beforehand, the fight against Suzuki was still phenomenal. Suzuki’s striking against Koike’s grappling prowess was a classic clash of styles. The dramatic finish, with Suzuki’s powerful striking taking over, was a reminder of how quickly fights can turn in RIZIN. My jaw dropped when that final sequence unfolded!
RIZIN.45 (New Year’s Eve 2023): Seika Izawa vs. Miyuu Yamamoto
What a way to close out the year! The super atomweight title fight was pure heart and grit. Izawa, an absolute superstar, defended her belt against the legendary Miyuu Yamamoto, who was making her final appearance. The emotion in the arena, the competitive nature of the fight, and the passing of the torch (though Yamamoto is a legend in her own right) made it a truly special, tear-jerking moment.

Here’s a little table summarizing some of these epic clashes:

Event Date Key Bout Outcome My Personal Take
RIZIN.40 Dec 31, 2022 AJ McKee vs. Roberto de Souza McKee via Unanimous Decision A fantastic start to the crossover; McKee’s class truly shone.
RIZIN LANDMARK 5 Apr 29, 2023 Juan Archuleta vs. Kai Asakura Archuleta via Unanimous Decision Tactical masterclass! Archuleta’s grit was undeniable, a true champion’s performance.
RIZIN.43 Jun 24, 2023 Chihiro Suzuki vs. Kleber Koike Erbst Suzuki via TKO (R1) Absolute stunning upset! Suzuki’s power was on full display, a true “wow” moment.
RIZIN.45 (New Year’s Eve) Dec 31, 2023 Seika Izawa vs. Miyuu Yamamoto Izawa via Unanimous Decision Emotional and inspiring title defense, a beautiful send-off for a legend.
RIZIN.45 (New Year’s Eve) Dec 31, 2023 Kyoji Horiguchi vs. Makoto Shinryu Horiguchi via TKO (R2) Horiguchi proving why he’s still elite, demonstrating incredible comeback power and precision.
The RIZIN Experience: More Than Just Fights

What truly sets RIZIN apart, for me, is the entire package. It’s an sensory overload in the best possible way.

The Walkouts: Oh my goodness, the walkouts! They’re theatrical masterpieces. Pyrotechnics, elaborate costumes, live music, and the roar of the crowd – it’s designed to give you chills. I always feel like I’m watching a high-stakes performance unfold before the actual fight even begins.
The Ring: The traditional ring, not a cage, adds a distinct old-school feel that many other promotions have moved away from. It harks back to the PRIDE FC days, and for a nostalgic fan like me, it’s a huge plus.
The Crowd: The Japanese fans are incredibly respectful and knowledgeable. They cheer for both fighters, appreciate skill, and create an atmosphere of intense concentration mixed with explosive excitement. When a big moment happens, the roar is deafening, but it’s never disrespectful.
The Diversity: RIZIN fearless mixes MMA with kickboxing, making each card feel fresh and exciting. You might see a grappling wizard one minute and a Muay Thai specialist the next. It’s glorious!

It’s truly a unique spectacle, something you have to experience to fully appreciate. I tell all my friends, “If you ever get the chance to witness RIZIN live, jump on it! It’s a bucket-list item for any combat sports fan.”

My Personal Takeaways from RIZIN 2023

RIZIN 2023 reinforced everything I love about combat sports: the unpredictable nature, the incredible athleticism, and the raw human spirit on display. I saw underdogs rise, champions defend their crowns with grit, and legends bid farewell with honor.

It taught me that while knockout power and submission skills are vital, heart and mental fortitude are equally, if not more, important. Every fighter who stepped into that ring in 2023 left a piece of themselves there, and as a fan, I felt every punch, every submission attempt, and every moment of triumph and defeat.

RIZIN isn’t afraid to be different, to embrace its heritage while pushing forward with exciting matchups and incredible production. It’s vibrant, it’s dramatic, and it’s always, always entertaining.

FAQ: Your Burning RIZIN Questions Answered!

I often get asked a lot of questions about RIZIN, so here are some quick answers to a few common ones!

Q1: What exactly is RIZIN Fighting Federation? A1: RIZIN Fighting Federation is a Japanese mixed martial arts (MMA) and kickboxing promotion founded in 2015 by Nobuyuki Sakakibara, the former president of PRIDE FC. It’s known for its high-production values, diverse matchups, and a blend of traditional martial arts ethos with modern combat sports.

Q2: Where can I watch RIZIN events? A2: RIZIN events are typically streamed live on platforms like FITE TV (now TrillerTV) for international audiences. In Japan, they are often broadcast on Fuji TV and streamed on their own RIZIN LIVE platform. Check their official website for specific event viewing details!

Q3: What makes RIZIN different from promotions like UFC or Bellator? A3: RIZIN has several unique aspects:

Ruleset: While mostly standard MMA, RIZIN occasionally allows soccer kicks and stomps to a grounded opponent (depending on the ruleset for a specific fight), which is rare in Western MMA. They also feature kickboxing bouts.
Ring vs. Cage: RIZIN primarily uses a traditional boxing ring instead of an Octagon/cage.
Production: Known for its elaborate walkouts, pyrotechnics, and a theatrical presentation style.
Cultural Element: Strongly embraces Japanese martial arts tradition and fan culture.

Q4: Who are some key RIZIN fighters to watch? A4: RIZIN boasts an incredibly talented roster! Some current and past stars include Kyoji Horiguchi, Kai Asakura, Seika Izawa, Roberto “Satoshi” de Souza, Kleber Koike Erbst, Juan Archuleta, and numerous exciting kickboxers like Tenshin Nasukawa (who has now moved to boxing).

Q5: Will RIZIN have more events in 2024? A5: Absolutely! RIZIN has a consistently busy schedule, with multiple events planned throughout the year, including their legendary New Year’s Eve show. Keep an eye on their official social media and website for announcements!

Looking Ahead to RIZIN 2024!

As 2023 wrapped up, I was already buzzing with anticipation for what RIZIN has in store for us in 2024. The promotion continues to evolve, bringing new talent to the forefront while honoring its iconic heritage. If you haven’t dived into the world of RIZIN yet, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try. You might just find your new favorite combat sports spectacle!

What were your favorite RIZIN 2023 moments? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! Let’s talk RIZIN!