Kai Asakura UFC Debut
On December 7th, Las Vegas will host UFC 310, the promotion’s final pay-per-view event of 2024. In an unexpected twist, the main event features Kai Asakura, a dynamic and talented Japanese fighter making his UFC debut, challenging champion Alexandre Pantoja for his flyweight title. Here are 5 key facts about the rising star:
1. Rizin Star
Kai Asakura was a standout in the Japanese promotion Rizin Fighting Federation, where he captured the bantamweight title and reached the finals of the Grand Prix. With an MMA record of 21-4, Asakura is a prolific finisher, boasting 16 victories via stoppage, most of them highlight-reel knockouts. His signature weapon? Devastating body strikes.
2. Japan Celebrity Status
Asakura is a household name in Japan, with over 1.37 million subscribers on his YouTube channel. His fights consistently attract massive viewership on Rizin FF’s platforms, underscoring his popularity. As mixed martial arts experiences a resurgence in Japan, Asakura has the potential to become the face of Japanese MMA on the global stage if he captures UFC gold. Even entering the UFC octagon will further raise his stock.
3. Diverse Martial Arts Background
As a child, Asakura briefly trained in karate and traditional Japanese sumo wrestling. Known for frequent fights with classmates—and even with his older brother—his mother enrolled him in boxing on the advice of a therapist. That decision laid the foundation for his future success in combat sports.
4. Underground Fighting Roots
Before officially entering MMA, the Asakura brothers participated in underground fights organized by local gangs. These bouts helped Kai develop his unorthodox striking and fearless approach. His older brother even earned the nickname “Street Legend” for dominating the neighborhood scene.
5. A Historic UFC Opportunity
Kai Asakura is only the second male fighter in UFC history to receive a title shot in his debut. Unlike Joe Soto, who stepped in on short notice in 2014, Asakura’s title fight is a planned showcase—highlighting the UFC’s confidence in his star power and skill set.
If Kai Asakura wins the title at UFC 310, he’ll not only make history but could also position himself as Japan’s leading MMA ambassador on the world stage. With his explosive style, immense popularity, and a knack for the spectacular, he’s a fighter to watch as he enters the Octagon for his first time on Saturday night!