RIZIN 54 mixed martial arts event preparations and results

Preparations for the RIZIN 54 mixed martial arts event in Tokyo progressed from fighter training and matchmaking to official weigh-ins and match results.

Ahead of the event, main event fighters Kleber Koike and Kyoji Akimoto discussed their differing tactical approaches. Koike, a former featherweight champion, emphasized his experience and focused on securing a submission, noting that this fight represents his “final opportunity to reclaim the 145-pound title” following the promotion’s partnership with the PFL. Akimoto aimed for an early knockout to avoid grappling.

During the official weigh-ins on August 10, Koike and Akimoto both successfully met the 66.0kg weight limit. However, Alibek Gajamatov missed the 57.0kg limit for his match against Hiroki Ito, weighing in at 58.75kg due to health issues.

At the event held at Toyota Arena Tokyo, several key matchups occurred. Joze secured a first-round knockout victory over Hiramoto Jo. In the semi-final bout, Masamitsu Sato earned a decision victory over Patchy Mix. Mix had exceeded the 61kg weight limit by 2.85kg; consequently, the bout was conducted under conditions where only a win for Sato would be recognized as an official record.