More than a year has passed since the MMA world has seen the Japanese-born, Brazil-based Goiti Yamauchi in action. Injuries led to cancelled fights, and before he knew it, 13 months had gone by. Fortunately for Yamauchi, his latest training camp was free of setbacks, clearing the way for his return to Bellator MMA competition.
Yamauchi will let his limbs fly at against former Pancrase champion Isao Kobayashi at Bellator 144 on Friday at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. Kobayashi has lost just once in the last five years, establishing himself as one of Japan’s most-sought-after exports.