Danny Sabatello Aims to Make Waves in Japan with Rizin FF

Danny Sabatello is ready to shake things up in Japan. The former Bellator interim title challenger and PFL veteran has inked a three-fight deal with Rizin FF, and he’s confident that his presence in the Japanese promotion will be anything but ordinary.

“I think I’m going to be massive over there,” Sabatello told MMA Junkie Radio. “A lot of people are going to love me, and I know a lot of people over there are going to hate me.”

The 31-year-old fighter, known for his no-nonsense attitude and unapologetic trash talk, believes his brash persona will create a unique dynamic in Japan. Rizin, a promotion that embraces showmanship alongside high-level competition, seems like the perfect stage for him.

Sabatello’s transition to Rizin comes after a frustrating period of uncertainty. Following the PFL-Bellator merger in late 2023, he struggled to secure consistent fights. However, once Rizin stepped in with a structured offer and clear communication, the decision was easy.

“I do whatever the f*ck I want, and I do things my way,” Sabatello declared. “Not a lot of Americans go over to Rizin, but I think after me signing with them, we’re going to see more fighters try to get in. I don’t know if they’ll be welcomed like I was, though.”

Despite exploring multiple options during free agency, Sabatello insists Rizin was the standout choice. While he sees it as a long-term home, he hasn’t ruled out a potential return to a U.S.-based promotion, including the UFC, if the opportunity presents itself.

Sabatello has had his ups and downs in recent years. After losing a razor-thin decision to Raufeon Stots for the Bellator interim title in 2022, he bounced back with a win over Marcos Breno. Still, he then hit a rough patch with losses to Magomed Magomedov and Stots in a rematch. His lone PFL bout ended in a majority draw against Lazaro Dayron, and he briefly considered retirement before deciding he wasn’t done yet.

Now, he sees his Rizin tenure as a chance to redefine his career.

“This isn’t about money, but I will never be taken advantage of,” Sabatello said. “If I can go in there and break someone’s fcking face, entertain these fans, and take over this whole fcking promotion, then that’s priceless. That’s something money can’t buy.”

With his debut opponent and date already set to be announced soon, Sabatello is gearing up for a fresh start. Whether fans in Japan embrace him or despise him, one thing is certain—Danny Sabatello is coming to make a statement.