Famous Japanese Mixed Martial Artists

Tenshin Nasukawa is a highly acclaimed Japanese professional boxer, former professional kickboxer, and mixed martial artist known for his exceptional skills and achievements in the combat sports world. He has earned a reputation as one of the greatest kickboxers in modern history, with notable victories over renowned champions in both boxing and Muay Thai. Throughout his career, Nasukawa has held multiple championship titles across different weight classes and has been recognized as the best pound for pound kickboxer in the world.

Yoshihiro Akiyama, also known as Choo Sung-hoon and by his nickname Sexyama, is a successful Japanese mixed martial artist and judoka. He has achieved significant victories in competitive martial arts, winning the gold medal at the 2001 Asian Championships for South Korea and at the 2002 Asian Games for Japan. Akiyama is renowned as the former K-1 HERO's Light Heavyweight Grand Prix Tournament Champion, showcasing his exceptional skills and prowess in the world of mixed martial arts.

Yushin Okami is a highly accomplished Japanese mixed martial artist with a professional career spanning various prestigious organizations such as the UFC, PRIDE, Pancrase, M-1 Global, World Series of Fighting, DEEP, Professional Fighters League, and ONE Championship. Throughout his tenure, Okami has established himself as one of the most prominent Japanese fighters in recent times, earning a reputation as one of the greatest in the history of Japanese mixed martial arts. His skills and achievements have solidified his status as a formidable force in the sport.

Satoshi Ishii is a versatile athlete excelling in judo, mixed martial arts, kickboxing, and submission grappling. He achieved notable success in judo, winning an Olympic gold medal and multiple championships in Japan. Transitioning to MMA in 2009, Ishii has competed in various organizations such as the Professional Fighters League, Rizin Fighting Federation, and Bellator. With a solid record of 24-12-1, he holds titles such as the HEAT Heavyweight Champion and SBC Heavyweight Champion, showcasing his talent and adaptability in combat sports.

Katsuyori Shibata is a versatile Japanese professional wrestler, mixed martial artist, and wrestling trainer currently under contract with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Known for his hard-hitting style, he has held various titles in organizations such as New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and Revolution Pro Wrestling (RPW). Shibata has notably won the New Japan Cup and has served as the head coach of NJPW's Los Angeles dojo. With a rich career, he continues to make an impact in the world of professional wrestling.

Kazushi Sakuraba is a Japanese professional wrestler and former mixed martial artist known for his catch wrestling skills and unorthodox fighting style. He has competed in various organizations such as Pro Wrestling Noah, New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and UWFi. Sakuraba has fought in MMA competitions for organizations like the UFC, Pride FC, and Rizin FF, earning the nickname "Gracie Hunter" for defeating members of the Gracie family. He holds victories over numerous champions across different weight classes, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time.

Satoru Sayama, also known as the original Tiger Mask, is a Japanese professional wrestler, mixed martial artist, writer, and promoter. He has held prestigious titles such as the WWF Junior Heavyweight Championship and the NWA World Junior Heavyweight Championship simultaneously. Sayama is renowned for his contribution to mixed martial arts as the founder of Shooto, one of the earliest MMA organizations. He developed a comprehensive MMA training syllabus that emphasized striking and grappling techniques, producing well-rounded fighters before the advent of UFC events. Additionally, he founded Seikendo and Real Japan Pro Wrestling.

Norifumi "KID" Yamamoto was a Japanese mixed martial artist and kickboxer known for his aggressive, well-rounded style. He gained popularity in the Shooto organization before becoming the K-1 Hero's 2005 Middleweight Grand Prix Tournament Champion. Despite being a natural bantamweight, he often competed in the lightweight division. Yamamoto later joined the UFC in the bantamweight division but struggled, going winless in his first four fights. Throughout his career, he was noted for his controversial persona and exciting fighting style.

Minoru Suzuki is a renowned Japanese professional wrestler and former mixed martial artist. He currently competes for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and Major League Wrestling (MLW). Suzuki has held multiple championships in NJPW, including the IWGP Intercontinental, NEVER Openweight, and IWGP Tag Team titles. As a co-founder of Pancrase, he was a top fighter in the 1990s and became the second King of Pancrase champion. Suzuki has also achieved success in All Japan Pro Wrestling and Pro Wrestling Noah, earning heavyweight championships in both promotions. His catch wrestling skills have earned him praise from notable fighters like Josh Barnett and Bas Rutten.

Takanori Gomi, known as "The Fireball Kid," is a legendary Japanese mixed martial artist who rose to fame in Pride Fighting Championships and later competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. He is the only Pride FC Lightweight Champion in the organization's history and holds numerous accolades, including winning the Lightweight Grand Prix at Pride Shockwave 2005. Gomi had a remarkable twelve-fight winning streak in Shooto and a ten-fight winning streak in Pride FC, where he achieved the quickest knockout victory in the organization's history. He is widely considered one of the greatest lightweight fighters in MMA history.

Mitsuyo Maeda, also known as Otávio Maeda, was a Japanese judoka and prizefighter recognized for his pioneering contributions to judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He gained fame as Count Combat or Conde Koma, a nickname acquired during his time in Spain. Maeda played a crucial role in spreading judo to various countries, including Brazil and the United Kingdom. He is particularly noted for his teachings to Carlos Gracie and the Gracie family, which significantly influenced the development of Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Maeda is revered as a key figure in the history of martial arts and is often hailed as the "toughest man who ever lived."

Akihiro Gono is a Japanese mixed martial artist known for his clever and deceptive fighting style. He has been a professional competitor since 1994 and has competed in various organizations including the UFC, PRIDE Fighting Championships, Pancrase, World Series of Fighting, DEEP, World Victory Road, Shooto, Bellator, and Dynamite!! 2009 event. Gono is well-regarded for his flashy ring entrances and has gained recognition for his unique approach to fighting in the Lightweight division.

Tatsuya Kawajiri is a renowned Japanese mixed martial artist who has competed across various prestigious organizations such as UFC, PRIDE, DREAM, Strikeforce, ONE FC, and Rizin Fighting Federation. Known for his exceptional skills in the Bantamweight division, Kawajiri has held the Shooto Lightweight Champion title. His memorable fights, including the intense battle with Takanori Gomi at PRIDE Bushido 9, have earned him accolades such as PRIDE Fighting Championship's Fight of the Year in 2005. Widely recognized as one of the top Lightweight fighters globally, Kawajiri's professional career is marked by numerous standout performances and achievements.

Katsunori Kikuno is a Japanese mixed martial artist known for his successful career in the sport. He has competed in various organizations and was the former DEEP Lightweight Champion. Kikuno has displayed impressive skills and techniques inside the cage, earning him recognition from fans and fellow fighters alike. Throughout his professional life, he has faced tough opponents and has showcased resilience and determination in his fights. Kikuno's contributions to the sport have solidified his reputation as a talented and accomplished mixed martial artist.

Kazuyuki Fujita is a versatile Japanese professional wrestler and mixed martial artist who has competed in various organizations such as Pro Wrestling Noah, PRIDE Fighting Championships, K-1, Rizin Fighting Federation, and World Victory Road. Starting his career in 1993 with New Japan Pro-Wrestling, he later transitioned to MMA in 2000 and gained recognition for his shoot-based offense. Fujita has held titles like the IWGP Heavyweight Championship and continues to make appearances in promotions like Pro Wrestling Noah and Real Japan Pro Wrestling.

Yuichiro "Jienotsu" Nagashima is a Japanese cosplayer, retired kickboxer, and mixed martial artist who made a name for himself in the K-1 circuit. Known for his versatile skills and entertaining fighting style, Nagashima gained popularity for his performances in the ring. His career in K-1 showcased his agility and striking ability, earning him a strong following among fans of combat sports. After retiring, he continued to be involved in the entertainment industry, leveraging his fame and skills in various creative pursuits.

Naoya Ogawa is a multi-talented Japanese athlete known for his achievements in judo, professional wrestling, and mixed martial arts. He has an impressive judo career with numerous medals at both national and international competitions. In professional wrestling, he made a name for himself in New Japan Pro-Wrestling, engaging in notable feuds and becoming a two-time NWA World's Heavyweight Champion. Ogawa's diverse skill set and success in multiple combat sports have solidified his reputation as a versatile and accomplished athlete.

Mizuto Hirota is a Japanese mixed martial artist known for his career in various prominent organizations. With a professional career spanning since 2005, he has showcased his skills in events like Dynamite!! 2009, Ultimate Fighting Championship, Shooto, and Strikeforce. Currently competing in the Featherweight division of the Rizin Fighting Federation, Hirota has built a reputation as a skilled and experienced fighter in the MMA world. His diverse experience and competitive spirit have made him a respected figure in the sport.

Yuki Nakai is a retired Japanese mixed martial artist who now teaches Shooto and jiu-jitsu, serving as the president of the Japanese Confederation of Jiu-Jitsu. Known for his accomplishments in Shooto, he won the Shooto World Welterweight Championship and competed in Vale Tudo Japan 1995 despite being outweighed in every match. Despite a severe eye injury, Nakai reached the finals, where he lost to Rickson Gracie. He is highly regarded as a legend in Shooto and has coached notable fighters like Shinya Aoki.

Hayato Sakurai, also known as Mach, is a highly accomplished Japanese mixed martial artist with a professional career spanning various prestigious organizations such as UFC, PRIDE, DREAM, and Shooto. He has showcased his skills in numerous events including Yarennoka! and Dynamite!!, earning recognition for his talent and versatility. Sakurai's achievements include finishing second in the ADCC Submission Wrestling World Championship and holding the title of former Shooto Middleweight Champion. His nickname "Mach" pays homage to his childhood wrestling idol, reflecting his dedication to the sport.

Kyoji Horiguchi is a Japanese mixed martial artist known for his successful career in various organizations. He currently competes in Rizin FF in the Flyweight division, holding the RIZIN Flyweight Championship. He has also held the RIZIN Bantamweight Championship and was the former Bellator Bantamweight World Champion. With a professional career spanning since 2010, Horiguchi has competed in promotions like the Ultimate Fighting Championship and previously held the Shooto Bantamweight Championship. He has displayed exceptional skills and versatility throughout his fighting career.

Megumi Fujii is a Japanese former professional mixed martial artist and submission wrestler, recognized as a trailblazer in women's mixed martial arts. Specializing in submission fighting, she gained fame for her rapid takedowns and submission techniques. Fujii's signature move, the Inazuma toe hold submission, also known as the Megulock, became widely popular. Throughout her career, she demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship, leaving a lasting impact on the world of mixed martial arts and inspiring future generations of female fighters.

Tsuyoshi Kosaka is a retired Japanese mixed martial artist, submission grappler, and professional wrestler known for competing in the Heavyweight division. He had a successful career spanning from 1994 to 2022, during which he competed for various organizations including UFC, PRIDE Fighting Championships, RIZIN, RINGS, Pancrase, and DEEP. Kosaka is renowned for his grappling skills, particularly in Judo and Shoot Wrestling. His "TK guard" position, which influenced modern butterfly guard, earned him recognition from former UFC champions Frank Shamrock and Maurice Smith for its efficiency. Kosaka is considered a pioneer in mixed martial arts and was a top-ranked Japanese fighter for many years.

Kazuhiro Nakamura is a Japanese retired mixed martial artist known for competing as a Middleweight in DREAM and being a former DEEP Middleweight Champion. He fought in various prestigious organizations such as the Pride Fighting Championships, the Ultimate Fighting Championship, and the Sengoku Raiden Championship. Nakamura trained at the Yoshida Dojo and excelled in judo, holding a third dan black belt under Hidehiko Yoshida. Throughout his professional career, he showcased his skills and determination in the competitive world of mixed martial arts.

Yoshiyuki Yoshida is a Japanese mixed martial artist who competes in the welterweight division. He is known for being a student of former Shooto competitor Noboru Asahi. Throughout his career, Yoshida has competed in various organizations including Shooto, Cage Force, and the UFC. Notably, he achieved the title of the first Cage Force welterweight tournament winner on December 1, 2007. Yoshida's professional life is marked by his skills and achievements in the competitive world of mixed martial arts.

Akira Maeda is a prominent figure in Japanese professional wrestling and mixed martial arts. He is a retired professional wrestler and mixed martial artist who is also known for his role as a promoter and writer in the industry. Maeda played a key role in developing the shoot-style of professional wrestling during the late 1980s. He founded Fighting Network RINGS in 1991, which became a top MMA promotion before its closure in 2002. Maeda's contributions have had a lasting impact on the world of professional wrestling and MMA.

Bobby Ologun is a Nigerian-born television personality and mixed martial artist who holds Japanese citizenship. Known as Bobby in Japan, he is fluent in English, Yoruba, and Japanese. He resides in Saitama, Japan. He became a naturalized citizen in 2007, taking his wife's surname as Bobby Konda. Currently, he works as a narrator for the TV show You wa Nani Shi ni Nippon e. Bobby's professional life is marked by his diverse skills, multilingual abilities, and prominent role in Japanese television.

Kazuo Misaki is a retired Japanese professional mixed martial artist who competed from 2001 to 2013. He achieved notable success by winning the 2006 PRIDE Welterweight Grand Prix Championship. Misaki also competed in various other organizations such as Sengoku, Pancrase, DEEP, and Strikeforce. His fight against Jorge Santiago in 2010 for the Sengoku Middleweight Championship was recognized as the "Fight of the Year" by InsideMMA. Throughout his career, Misaki showcased his skills and determination, leaving a lasting impact on the MMA world.

Hisaki Kato is a Japanese-French professional mixed martial artist and kickboxer known for competing in Bellator's Middleweight division. With a career spanning since 2013, he has also showcased his skills in organizations like Rizin. Kato has gained recognition for his impressive performances in the MMA world, displaying a combination of striking techniques and well-rounded fighting abilities. He continues to be a notable figure in the sport, captivating audiences with his exciting fights and competitive spirit.

Kleber Koike Erbst is a Japanese mixed martial artist competing in the Featherweight division of Rizin Fighting Federation and Konfrontacja Sztuk Walki (KSW). He has held titles in both organizations, being a former Rizin Featherweight Champion and KSW Featherweight Champion. Erbst has established himself as a skilled and accomplished fighter in the MMA world, showcasing his talent and dedication through his performances in various high-profile competitions. He continues to be a prominent figure in the Featherweight division, earning recognition for his impressive achievements in the sport.

Ayaka Hamasaki is a highly accomplished Japanese mixed martial artist, judoka, and submission grappler. She has competed in various prestigious MMA promotions in Japan and the United States, including Shooto, Jewels, Rizin, and Invicta FC. Hamasaki has held multiple championship titles, including the Rizin Super Atomweight Champion and former Invicta FC Atomweight Champion. Known for her exceptional skills, she is recognized internationally as one of the top atomweight fighters in the world, ranking high on Fight Matrix and MMARising.com's lists of elite female fighters.

Megumi Yabushita is a retired Japanese female athlete with a diverse professional background. She excelled in various combat sports, including mixed martial arts, kickboxing, professional wrestling, and judo. Throughout her career, she competed in several Japanese professional wrestling and mixed martial arts promotions, showcasing her skills and determination. Yabushita achieved notable accomplishments, such as being a Japanese national judo champion and a former Smackgirl open weight champion and tournament winner. Her contributions to the world of combat sports have left a lasting impact on the industry.

Goiti Yamauchi is a Brazilian mixed martial artist known for competing in the Welterweight division for Bellator MMA and currently in the Professional Fighters League. He has showcased impressive skills and determination throughout his professional career, earning recognition for his technical prowess and strategic approach to fights. Yamauchi's journey in the MMA world has been marked by memorable performances and victories, solidifying his reputation as a formidable athlete in the welterweight division.

Shinya Aoki is a highly accomplished Japanese mixed martial artist, professional wrestler, and grappler. With a professional career spanning since 2003, he has achieved numerous titles and championships in various organizations including DREAM, ONE Championship, WAMMA, and Shooto. A BJJ black belt and Judoka, Aoki is known for his exceptional skills in submission grappling. Alongside other top Japanese grapplers, he co-founded the "Nippon Top Team." Aoki has also excelled in various grappling competitions, winning titles such as the All Japan Jiu-Jitsu Championships and ADCC Japan Championship.

Yuka Tsuji is a highly accomplished Japanese female mixed martial artist known as the "Vale Tudo Queen." Throughout the 2000s, Tsuji achieved notable success in the MMA world, winning championships such as the Smackgirl Lightweight Champion and Valkyrie Featherweight Champion. She was also recognized as the #1 pound-for-pound Female Mixed Martial artist by Fight Matrix in 2002, 2004, and 2005. Tsuji consistently ranked in the Top 5 of women's MMA fighters in the flyweight and strawweight classes before retiring from MMA in 2012.