RIZIN.50 Preview

Main Event: RIZIN Bantamweight Championship

Naoki Inoue (c) vs. Yuki Motoya 2

Reigning Bantamweight Champion Naoki Inoue defends his title against the seasoned Yuki Motoya. Inoue captured the belt with a first-round submission victory over Soo Chul Kim at RIZIN.48, showcasing his elite grappling skills. Motoya, a RIZIN veteran with 20 fights in the promotion, holds the second-most total ring time and third-most wins in RIZIN history. Their first fight saw Naoki Inoue secure a first-round submission of Yuki Motoya, which Motoya is eager to avenge en route to capturing the RIZIN Bantamweight title.

Co-Main Event: Featherweight Title Eliminator

Chihiro Suzuki vs. Karshyga Dautbek

Former Featherweight Champion Chihiro Suzuki aims to rebound after losing his title to Kleber Koike on New Year's Eve. Suzuki, known for his striking and power, faces Kazakhstan's Karshyga Dautbek, who enters on a nine-fight win streak, with seven first-round knockouts. Both fighters possess the ability to end the fight in an instant, setting the stage for a potential fight of the night or a quick finish.

Shunta Nomura vs. Luiz Gustavo

Shunta Nomura, a decorated Greco-Roman wrestler, has the opportunity to become RIZIN's first Japanese Lightweight Champion as he climbs toward a title shot in his division. Standing in his path is Brazil's Luiz Gustavo, known for his aggressive style and knockout power. Gustavo seeks redemption after a 21-second KO loss to current Champion Roberto "Satoshi" de Souza. Gustavo has previously trained with MMA legend Wanderlei Silva, and will bring the aggressive Brazilian style to make this a must-see matchup.

Shuya Kimura vs. Takeji Yokoyama

Shuya Kimura has garnered attention with four consecutive wins, all secured within 75 seconds, showcasing his explosive striking. Takeji Yokoyama, a submission specialist with a 100% finish rate, presents a formidable challenge. This is your classic striker vs. grappler matchup, but don't forget—RIZIN allows grounded knees and soccer kicks, so there's plenty of action on the mat too.

Yoshiro Maeda vs. Sanou Yokouchi

At 23, Sanou Yokouchi faces his toughest test against 59-fight veteran Yoshiro Maeda. Maeda, a former WEC title challenger and Featherweight King of Pancrase, brings a wealth of experience. Yokouchi, nicknamed "Onigiri-kun," aims to make a statement by defeating a seasoned opponent. This matchup highlights the timeless narrative of experience versus youth—but which will prevail?

Takeshi Izumi vs. Spike Carlyle

Takeshi Izumi, a decorated wrestler, seeks his first RIZIN victory against the unpredictable and game Spike Carlyle. Carlyle, known for his theatrical walkouts and unorthodox fighting style, is coming off a win at RIZIN.47 after a long stint in other promotions such as Bellator, UFC, and Cage Warriors, where he fought names like A.J. McKee and Billy Quarantillo.

Yuki Ito vs. Tony Laramie

RIZIN flyweight veteran Yuki Ito returns to face Canadian prospect Tony Laramie. Ito's methodical approach contrasts with Laramie's aggressive style, highlighted by three first-round knockouts in his last four fights. Laramie is 10–2 and is the younger brother of UFC vet T.J. Laramie. He's looking to build up a career in RIZIN and get his second win in the promotion.

King Edokpolo vs. Ryo Sakai

Edokpolo King, a 6'8" athlete with Nigerian and Korean heritage, is known for his athleticism and devastating clinch striking. He made his MMA debut last time out and blasted through Bing with a first-round KO, and he's looking to continue the streak. Sakai brings knockout power and resilience. It'd be a huge shock if this matchup went the distance.

RIZIN.50 is another great event filled with a long list of matchups. You can watch the event for free on RIZIN.tv. The event can be streamed live or viewed after it airs, meaning you can watch it regardless of your timezone. Don't forget to make your picks on Verdict!