RIZIN Fighting Federation’s president Nobuyuki Sakakibara confirmed that the organization is open to hosting Anderson Silva’s retirement bout, emphasizing their longstanding relationship and willingness to provide a platform for legendary fighters’ final matches.
Anderson Silva’s hinted retirement fight? It’s with RIZIN Fighting Federation. Nobuyuki Sakakibara, the company’s president, confirmed this nugget to MMA Fighting.
Sakakibara’s history with Silva dates back to the PRIDE days. He’s open to a final Silva showdown in RIZIN. “Our doors are always open,” he says, a nod to their longstanding rapport.
“Anderson has fought for us,” Sakakibara reminisced, speaking through a translator. They’ve chatted, sure. But it’s more than idle talk. “If things make sense, we’ll always put something together,” he mused.
Silva’s MMA journey paused in 2020, post-UFC. He dreams of a final fight in Japan. “It makes all the sense,” he said, recalling where his international career sparked to life.
The Brazilian icon’s record? A solid 34-11, with one no-contest. Post-UFC, he’s been boxing, notching wins and even entering the UFC Hall of Fame. Yet, in a twist, he faced defeat by Jake Paul in 2020.
Sakakibara keeps it vague but hopeful about Silva’s RIZIN prospects. “We do have a relationship,” he admits. And if the stars align? “We’re always open to making things happen.”
Other legends aren’t off the table either. Take Fedor Emelianenko, for instance. His RIZIN stint in 2015 was memorable. Now, after a Bellator run, he’s bowing out of the sport.
RIZIN cherishes its legends. Sakakibara’s clear: they offer a dignified final stage. “We’re not going to get rid of that concept right away,” he asserts.
Takanori Gomi’s potential retirement fight? RIZIN would host it with pride. Sakakibara’s vision involves honoring legends and thrilling fans with nostalgic matchups.
Looking ahead, RIZIN’s Dec. 31 event in Saitama, Japan, is packed. Kyoji Horiguchi and Makoto Shinryu vie for the flyweight title. Meanwhile, Juan Archuleta defends his bantamweight crown against Kai Asakura.