Rizin 33: Ougikubo Wins Grand Prix

Rizin 33, the year-end event from the Rizin Fighting Federation, took place on December 31, 2021, at the Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, Japan. The event was a thrilling display of mixed martial arts and kickboxing, featuring 16 fights that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

The card also featured a lightweight championship bout between Roberto “Satoshi” Souza and Yusuke Yachi. Souza, the reigning champion, successfully defended his title against Yachi, showcasing his superior grappling skills. The fight ended in the second round with Souza securing a triangle armbar submission, demonstrating his dominance in the lightweight division.

Another featured contest was a featherweight bout between Mikuru Asakura and Yutaka Saito. Asakura emerged victorious, winning by unanimous decision after three rounds of intense action. This win marked a significant step forward in Asakura’s career, as he continues to establish himself as a force to be reckoned with in the featherweight division.

In addition to the main and co-main events, Rizin 33 also featured the Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix 2021 Tournament Championship. Hiromasa Ougikubo won the tournament, defeating Naoki Inoue in the semifinals and Kai Asakura by unanimous decision in the final later that night. The tournament showcased some of the best bantamweight fighters in the world, with the final match being a highlight of the event.

Rizin 33 also marked a significant milestone for the Rizin Fighting Federation. The event was held at full capacity, evidence of the resilience of the organization and the sport during challenging times. The event was also the promotion’s ninth and final event of the year, capping off a successful year of high-quality martial arts events.

Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic, Rizin 33 was a resounding success. The event was evidence of the spirit of martial arts, showcasing not only the physical prowess of the fighters but also their determination, resilience, and sportsmanship. As we look forward to future events, Rizin 33 serves as a reminder of the thrilling action and compelling narratives that make martial arts such a captivating sport.

Sources

RIZIN official results archive: events 33–40; Sherdog: RIZIN event archive; Event results record; MMA Fighting: Rizin 33 results.

Article Tags

Rizin 33, Rizin, Mixed Martial Arts, Event Results