There was a huge shock in Nagoya as Rizin and Bellator bantamweight world champion Kyoji Horiguchi was sensationally finished by surging bantamweight contender Kai Asakura in just over one minute in the main event of Rizin FF 18. The event was promoted as a showcase for two of Rizin’s world champions, with both Horiguchi and women’s super-atomweight champion Ayaka Hamasaki booked in non-title fights and expected to win impressively. But Asakura (13-1 MMA, 5-0 Rizin) had other ideas and closed the show with a spectacular performance as he rocked, then finished, Horiguchi (28-3 MMA, 10-1 Rizin) in a stunning upset to announce himself as the clear top contender for the Rizin bantamweight title. #RIZIN #RIZINFF #RIZIN18 pic.twitter.com/Omvd8KwvvC — Jonnyboy (@JBNeverDies) August 18, 2019 Asakura looked to walk down Horiguchi from the opening bell and, after a few feints, connected with a big right hand that sent Horiguchi staggering backward on shaky legs as the crowd at the Dolphins Arena gasped, sensing an upset.
Link:
Rizin FF 18 results: Kai Asakura stuns Kyoji Horiguchi in non-title clash – MMA Junkie