Shaidullaev Defends Rizin Title Before MVP Move

Undefeated featherweight champion Rajabali Shaidullaev will defend his Rizin title against Kyoma Akimoto at Super Rizin 6 on Dec. 31 at Vantelin Dome Nagoya in Japan, Sherdog reports.

The bout is expected to be Shaidullaev's final appearance for Rizin before he joins Most Valuable Promotions in 2027. The 20-0 champion stopped former Bellator titleholder A.J. McKee by unanimous decision in September and has never tasted defeat across 20 professional fights. Akimoto brings a 13-1 record into the title challenge.

Women's Super Atomweight Title On The Line

The Dec. 31 card features a second championship bout when women's super atomweight champion Saori Oshima puts her belt against Natalia Kuziutina. Kuziutina earned the title shot by submitting Rena Kubota at Super Rizin 5 in September. Oshima carries a 17-7 record into the defense against the 11-1 challenger.

The event also includes a lightweight rematch between champion Luiz Gustavo and Mikuru Asakura, marking their second meeting after their first fight seven years and eight months ago. Doors open at 11:00 a.m. local time with the action starting at 1:00 p.m.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Undefeated Rajabali Shaidullaev headlines Super Rizin 6 title doubleheader