Rivalries: Yoshihiro Akiyama

While United States audiences and Ultimate Fighting Championship fans alike were gripped by the legacies carved by fighters like Randy Couture and Chuck Liddell, across the Pacific, a different breed of warriors were etching their names into the annals of mixed martial arts history in Japan. Among these legends was the revered Yoshihiro Akiyama, a name synonymous with the rise of Asian martial arts on the global stage.

The cherished status of “Sexyama” as one of the most beloved mixed martial artists in Japan and Korea serves as a poignant testament to the influential figure emanating from the perfection of diverse skills. Akiyama’s journey into combat sports began at the tender age of 3 with judo. His martial odyssey expanded to encompass karate, boxing, kickboxing, wrestling and submission grappling.

After several years of competing in the Western Hemisphere, Akiyama has returned to the vibrant martial arts scene in Asia. Now gracing the global stage of ONE Championship, he continues to shine as a beacon of inspiration, testing his skills against the world’s best martial artists and adding new chapters to his storied legacy.

Ahead of Akiyama’s special rules superfight opposite Nieky Holzken at ONE 165 this Sunday in Tokyo, a look at some of the rivalries that shaped his career:

Melvin Manhoef

In a pivotal K-1 Hero’s 7 clash on Oct. 9, 2006, Akiyama faced Manhoef and broke the Dutchman’s 10-fight winning streak with a decisive victory via armbar submission in the first round. This triumph secured him the 2006 K-1 Hero’s Light Heavyweight Grand Prix title and propelled Akiyama into an eight-fight unbeaten streak.

Denis Kang

Akiyama displayed his striking prowess by delivering a stunning first-round knockout against Denis Kang under the K-1 Hero’s banner on Oct. 28, 2007. While Kang initiated his offense with jabs and kicks, Akiyama countered with precision. In a surprising turn, a cornered Kang ducked while evading a jab only to be met with a thunderous uppercut that sent him crashing to the canvas. Kang then ate another stiff right hand before Akiyama decided to walk off. The victory marked Akiyama’s return from suspension and showed off his strategic brilliance and resilience.

Alan Belcher

UFC 100 provided the stage for Akiyama’s long-awaited Ultimate Fighting Championship debut against Belcher on July 11, 2009. He entered the Octagon with a 12-1 record and two no contests. In contrast, Belcher, known for his resilience and striking skills, aimed to build on his recent victories, including an upset of the aforementioned Kang. Akiyama won the closely contested bout via split decision.

Katsuyori Shibata

Akiyama faced Shibata at a Dream event on July 21, 2008, submitting him with an Ezekiel choke in the first round. As the pair continued to circle in the fight, Shibata attempted wild swings and slipped momentarily. Akiyama’s jabs and leg kicks maintained control, and Shibata, opting for jabs and a front kick, kept a cautious distance. Akiyama seized the opportunity, throwing a cross and initiating a takedown. Transitioning to mount, he swiftly applied an Ezekiel choke, rendering Shibata unconscious and securing the win at 6:34 of the first round.

Shinya Aoki

The clash between Yoshihiro Akiyama and Shinya Aoki at ONE X on March 26, 2022 was not your average fight; it was the culmination of a rivalry laden with tension and history. Aoki, the former ONE lightweight world champion, and Akiyama brought not just diverse skill sets but a narrative that transcended the ordinary. Aoki’s callout in October 2021 set the stage for a heated confrontation. Claiming Akiyama’s self-centered qualities fueled the rivalry, Aoki expressed his disdain for those who prioritize image over the raw reality of combat. In contrast, Akiyama, baffled by Aoki’s hatred, focused on the upcoming bout, citing his advantage in judo and throws. The result? Akiyama defeated Aoki via technical knockout in the second round.