With the meager sum of Japanese fighters competing inside the octagon, the arrival of Yoshihiro Akiyama brings a much needed incriment to Japan’s MMA entity in North America.

Slated to make his octagon debut at UFC 100 against Alan “The Talent” Belcher, the Judo star will look to electrify both UFC officals and spectators alike. Training out of Team Cloud in Japan, Akiyama has stockpiled an impressive 12-1 mixed martial arts record. The Osaka native has claimed victories over the likes of Melvin Manhoef and Pride veteran Denis Kang. Yoshihiro is also widely touted as one of the best judokas in all of mixed martial arts.

Check out the video below as Akiyama discusses his feeling on fighting in the UFC, his goals, and his vision to make Judo a successful martial art inside the octagon.

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