Mixed Martial Arts Hall of Fame: Induction of Kazushi Sakuraba

Ladies and gentleman, welcome to the Mixed Martial Arts Hall of Fame inaugural induction. The first member of the hall is perhaps the most deserving, as without him Pride Fighting Championships may have never become the powerhouse we all remember and love. He revolutionized the sport in many ways that are irreversible. Without Further ado, here is Joao Pedro on Kazushi Sakuraba:

Easily the all-time most popular Japanese MMA fighter, Sakuraba (still fighting at age 41) will forever be remembered as the man who defeated four Gracies (Royler, Royce, Renzo and Ryan), thus making MMA history.

But Sakuraba was also one of PRIDE FC’s biggest early stars, notching decisive wins over the likes of Vítor Belfort, Carlos Newton, Vernon White, Kevin Randleman and “Rampage” Jackson. His great grappling ability for MMA was complemented with a showmanship that made Japanese crowds go wild. From his entrances to some of the moves he performed inside the ring (the double Mongolian chop, for example), Sakuraba has always been of those rare “must watch” fighters.

On top of that, Sakuraba’s fight with Kestutis Smirnovas (HERO 6) is widely considered by specialists as one of the all-time best MMA fights.

Spectacular, innovative and a great grappler, Sakuraba deserves to be in the MMA Hall of Fame.

Kazushi Sakuraba Highlights:




One of Sakuraba’s finest hours, a recent submission win over Zelg Galesic