Chris Leben vs Yoshihiro Akiyama
Head-to-head comparison — tale of the tape, career analysis, stylistic breakdown, and prediction factors
Scheduled Fight
Chris Leben vs Yoshihiro Akiyama — Saturday, 21 November 2026
BLACK COMBAT 17: VANTABLACK
Full Event Details →
Chris Leben
22-12-0
Yoshihiro Akiyama
16-7-0Physical Comparison
Chris Leben stands 180cm tall compared to Yoshihiro Akiyama's 177cm — a 3cm height advantage that could allow Leben to control range and use the jab effectively.
Record & Experience
Chris Leben brings a record of 22-12-0 across 34 professional bouts (65% win rate).Yoshihiro Akiyama enters with 16-7-0 from 23 fights (70% win rate).
Chris Leben has the experience edge with 34 bouts compared to 23 — that's 11 more fights under the bright lights, which can matter in championship rounds when fatigue sets in and composure is tested.
In terms of finishing power, Chris Leben is the more prolific finisher with a 55% stoppage rate compared to 44% for Yoshihiro Akiyama. Leben has shown the ability to end fights decisively.
Age & Career Stage
At 46, Chris Leben is 5 years younger than Yoshihiro Akiyama (51). Youth can translate to speed, recovery, and a longer runway — but Akiyama's experience and ring IQ shouldn't be underestimated.
Key Factors
Leben's Path to Victory
- • Use height and reach to control distance
- • Target early stoppage with heavy hands (55% KO rate)
- • Lean on greater experience (34 bouts)
- • Establish rhythm early and dictate the pace
Akiyama's Path to Victory
- • Higher win percentage (70% vs 65%)
- • Apply pressure and force the fight on their terms
Chris Leben vs Yoshihiro Akiyama — FAQ
- What are Chris Leben's and Yoshihiro Akiyama's records?
- Chris Leben is 22-12-0 (12 KOs). Yoshihiro Akiyama is 16-7-0 (7 KOs).
- Who is taller — Chris Leben or Yoshihiro Akiyama?
- Chris Leben is taller at 180cm vs 177cm — a 3cm advantage.
- Who has the higher knockout rate?
- Chris Leben has the higher KO rate at 55% compared to Yoshihiro Akiyama's 44%.