Japanese judoka-turned-fighter Satoshi Ishii will take part in Rizin Fighting Federation’s inaugural eight-man heavyweight tournament.
Ishii revealed his participation on Saturday via Twitter, and Rizin confirmed the announcement on Monday with a formal announcement. Rizin also announced the withdrawal of England’s Mark Godbeer, who suffered a neck injury in training; Godbeer will be replaced by another representative from British promoter BAMMA.
The 2015 Rizin Fighting World Grand Prix launches Dec. 29 and concludes Dec. 31 as part of Rizin’s multi-day New Year’s Eve festivities in Saitama, Japan. Other fighters confirmed for the opening round are “King” Mo Lawal (U.