Kai Asakura’s debut in the UFC is set to be a monumental moment, as he steps into the octagon at UFC 310 for his first fight on U.S. soil, challenging none other than flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja for division gold. The 30-year-old fighter has already proven himself as a force to be reckoned with, dominating Japan’s premier MMA promotion, Rizin FF, where he held the championship title. Despite his immense popularity in Japan, Asakura humbly admits there’s someone even more famous than him in his home country.

In a heartfelt gesture, he revealed his hope that this person will be watching him make his UFC debut at UFC 310, as he strives to leave an unforgettable mark in the world’s biggest MMA promotion.

Kai Asakura wants Shohei Ohtani to watch him compete

Kai Asakura is already one of the biggest names in mixed martial arts, with a fanbase that rivals the most prominent stars in the UFC. This stat is solely based upon the metrics of social media engagement and popularity. Whenever Rizin posts anything about him, it generates millions of views and shares, showcasing his immense popularity. However, the 21-4 veteran humbly acknowledges that there’s someone in Japan who far eclipses his fame: baseball sensation Shohei Ohtani.

In a recent interview with TMZ, Asakura expressed his admiration for the Los Angeles Angels’ superstar. “Oh no, he is special. Every Japanese person knows him. He’s on TV every day, making big news,” Asakura said. “I’ve never met him, but I would love for him to come and watch me fight someday.”

Despite excelling in different fields, the two athletes share a common thread: complete dedication to their crafts. Asakura has devoted his entire life to mixed martial arts, much like Ohtani, who spent his childhood immersed in baseball and swimming. Asakura hopes their paths will cross one day, with Ohtani witnessing firsthand the skills that have made him a sensation in the world of MMA.

Throughout his career, Asakura has been a dominant force, holding the bantamweight championship and racking up highlight-reel finishes. However, even the best face setbacks. Asakura experienced a rare defeat earlier in his career at the hands of a fighter who now shares the UFC roster with him. Curious about who it was?

A rare blemish on Asakura’s MMA record

While Asakura’s performances in Rizin have earned him millions of followers and views, his career hasn’t been without its challenges. Among his few setbacks was a notable defeat to a fighter who is now a fellow UFC standout.

The 30-year-old Japanese phenom crossed paths with none other than Manel Kape, a skilled French fighter with his share of accolades. The two faced off twice during their time in Rizin, delivering memorable battles in the 130 lbs and 135 lbs category respectively. Their first clash at Rizin 10 in 2018 saw Asakura claim victory via split decision, marking his 10th professional win. However, the tables turned at Rizin 20, where Kape redeemed himself with a second-round finish, proving his mettle against the Japanese star.

Now reunited under the UFC banner, the question lingers: could a third fight between these two rivals be on the horizon? For now, all eyes are on UFC 310, where Asakura makes his highly anticipated debut. Can Asakura repeat his legendary run in the UFC? Tell us in the comment section below!