The son of legendary ‘Gracie Killer’ Kazushi Sakuraba scored a powerful 26-second knockout in his blended martial arts debut on Tuesday.
Emanating from the long-lasting Saitama Tremendous Enviornment in Japan, RIZIN FF delivered one other star-studded New 12 months’s Eve occasion that includes the debut of Taisei Sakuraba.
The 26-year-old entered the ring for a showdown with 41-fight veteran Yusuke Yachi as a part of the festivities and began the fireworks early with a quick-fire TKO.
After a quick alternate, Sakuraba threw a kick that Yachi caught. As Yachi continued to carry his leg, thew newcomer unleashed a left hand that despatched Yachi crashing to the canvas. ‘Saku Jr.’ swarmed his opponent, touchdown a collection of stable ground-and-pound strikes earlier than the referee noticed match to step in and name for the stoppage lower than half a minute into the scrap.
Having solely competed in grappling tournaments till now, ‘Saku Jr.’ walked into the bout as a +220 underdog in opposition to the much more skilled Yachi.
He’s now 1-0 in his skilled MMA profession, snapping Yachi’s four-fight win streak beneath the RIZIN banner.
Verify Out Highlights from Taisei Sakuraba’s spectacular debut at RIZIN: Decade
There’s going to be some speak of the short stoppage, however that is not on Taisei Sakuraba. THAT is the way you make your debut in opposition to a 40+ struggle veteran. Mere seconds. The legacy continues! #RIZIN_Decade (footage courtesy of RIZIN FF/RIZIN.television) pic.twitter.com/bQyAc6pTnj
— Cageside Press (@Cagesidepress) December 31, 2024