The atomweight division is about to say goodbye to one of its top fighters.
Kanna Asakura, a 26-year-old from Chiba, Japan, will be competing in her final match at RIZIN 48 against the undefeated champion Seika Izawa on September 29th. Asakura’s announcement of retirement has caught many off guard, especially considering her impressive 27-fight career.
Seven years ago, Asakura gained recognition in the atomweight category by winning the 2017 RIZIN Grand Prix, where she defeated the rising star Rena Kubota. Their rivalry extended into the following year, with Asakura once again emerging victorious in a highly anticipated rematch.
Kubota, who had a successful career in Shootboxing before transitioning to MMA, acknowledges the significant impact their rivalry had on both their careers and the division as a whole.
As she gears up for her farewell fight, Asakura looks back on her proudest moment of winning the Grand Prix and claiming the championship. Despite being young and having further potential for growth, Asakura has made the decision to retire at the age of 27.
Although Asakura hasn’t solidified plans for her post-fight life yet, she aims to give her fans and supporters a proper farewell before embarking on the next phase of her life.
For more details and insights, check out the full story and interview in the video above.
