Taisei Sakuraba Stuns with Lightning-Fast Knockout in RIZIN Debut

Taisei Sakuraba in RIZIN Debut

Taisei Sakuraba’s MMA debut at the RIZIN Decade was nothing short of spectacular, especially for fans of Japanese MMA nostalgia. The son of Kazushi Sakuraba, a legendary PRIDE veteran and UFC Hall of Famer, made his professional debut memorable by delivering a jaw-dropping 26-second knockout against seasoned fighter Yusuke Yachi on December 31 in Saitama.

With his father in his corner, Sakuraba, affectionately dubbed “Saku Jr.,” stepped into the cage against Yachi, a 41-fight veteran and former title contender. From the opening bell, the featherweight contest promised fireworks, as both fighters traded head kicks in rapid succession. Yachi managed to catch one of Sakuraba's kicks, but what came next left the crowd stunned.

Unfazed, Sakuraba immediately launched a precise left hand at Yachi’s head, sending the veteran to the canvas. Wasting no time, Sakuraba unleashed a barrage of strikes that forced the referee to intervene, ending the fight dramatically.

The victory not only marked Sakuraba’s professional MMA record at 1-0 but also snapped Yachi’s impressive four-fight winning streak in the RIZIN organization. This performance served as a powerful statement, hinting at the potential of “Saku Jr.” to follow in his father’s iconic footsteps.

For fans of Japanese MMA, this electrifying debut was a nostalgic nod to the dominance Kazushi Sakuraba once displayed. As Taisei continues his journey in professional MMA, the anticipation surrounding his future endeavors will undoubtedly grow.