Taisei Sakuraba, son of the legendary Japanese fighter Kazushi Sakuraba, expressed his surprise when RIZIN scheduled his debut fight against Yusuke Tachi, a seasoned veteran with 41 MMA bouts under his belt.
Reflecting on his father’s career, Sakuraba Jr. understood the challenge ahead of him.
Growing up watching his father excel in the PRIDE ring, Sakuraba Jr. participated in judo competitions and later ventured into grappling contests. His transition to mixed martial arts was a natural progression, although facing such an experienced opponent from the start was unexpected.
Despite being a lightweight like Tachi, Sakuraba Jr. acknowledged the vast difference in experience, with his father having faced renowned fighters such as Wanderlei Silva, Mirko Cro Cop, and Vitor Belfort during his time in PRIDE. The young fighter saw it as a challenge that aligned with his destiny to follow in his father’s footsteps.
Contemplating the matchup, Sakuraba Jr. initially questioned if it was too soon for such a formidable opponent. However, he recognized the opportunity to prove himself and make a name in the sport by overcoming expectations.
Tachi, with a record of 27-14 in MMA, posed a significant challenge for Sakuraba Jr. The young fighter viewed the bout as a chance to showcase his skills and earn recognition in the MMA world.
Inspired by his father’s legacy of facing international and larger opponents, Sakuraba Jr. embraced the challenge of stepping into the ring with Tachi, setting the stage for an exciting debut at RIZIN Decade.
Coming from a competitive judo background, Sakuraba Jr. understood the importance of results but also emphasized the significance of performance and fighting spirit in MMA. He aimed to inspire and connect with fans through his fights, seeking to evoke emotions and create memorable moments inside the cage.
As the fight with Tachi approached, Sakuraba Jr. saw the matchup as an opportunity to inspire fans and showcase his determination as an underdog. He believed that his grit and relentless attitude would surprise his more experienced opponent on fight night.
While Tachi had secured impressive wins in RIZIN, including victories over notable fighters, Sakuraba Jr. believed that his lack of a defined fighting style could work to his advantage on Dec. 31. His unwavering determination and willingness to push forward would be his strongest assets against the seasoned veteran.