Koike On Final RIZIN Title Shot After PFL Merger

Kleber Koike treats his RIZIN 54 main event against Kyoma Akimoto on Tuesday as his final opportunity to reclaim the featherweight title, and the Japanese promotion's partnership with the PFL and MVP gives him extra motivation to chase gold on both sides of the Pacific.

The former RIZIN champion, who turns 37 in October, told MMA Fighting that the promotion has confirmed the winner of Tuesday's bout will challenge for the 145-pound belt next. Current champion Razhabali Shaydullaev is scheduled to defend his RIZIN title against A.J. McKee Jr. on Sept. 10 while simultaneously competing for the inaugural PFL featherweight strap.

Koike Eyes International Stage After RIZIN-PFL Deal

"This merger can only bring good things," Koike said. "I live in Japan, which has embraced me. Imagine being able to fight in the United States while carrying the Japanese flag. Hopefully, it works out." The Brazilian, who has spent his entire career competing in Japan, added that representing the country abroad would be deeply rewarding despite his nationality.

Koike acknowledged the urgency of his situation. "It's my last shot," he said. "I know I don't have many years left. I'm closer to the end than I am to the beginning, so let's give it everything we have." He lost his title to Shaydullaev in 2025 but picked McKee to win next month, citing the former Bellator champion's experience against Russian-style grapplers.

If McKee wins and pursues a PFL opponent instead of defending the RIZIN belt on New Year's Eve, Koike said he has unfinished business in Japan, including a potential trilogy with Mikuru Asakura. The Dec. 31 card is scheduled for Koike's hometown in a large arena where Asakura once lived.

Koike was originally offered the Akimoto fight for last year's New Year's Eve show but felt the 20-year-old striker had not yet earned the opportunity. Akimoto instead faced Patchy Mix in March, stopping the former Bellator champion with soccer kicks in the second round. "He wasn't intimidated by the name Patchy Mix and put on a great performance," Koike said, per MMA Fighting. "But I don't think he has the MMA experience yet."

RIZIN 54 takes place Tuesday in Japan with the winner moving into position for a featherweight title shot later this year.

Reported via:

• MMA Fighting — Ex-champ Kleber Koike enters ‘last shot’ for RIZIN title with eyes on PFL, MVP merger