Two highly anticipated fights are set to headline RISE`s major August event in Tokyo: a long-awaited clash and a surprising rematch.
RISE recently announced its significant August 2nd event in Tokyo, revealing two highly competitive and much-demanded title fights for the card.
Given their strong records and rankings, a bout between Kento Haraguchi and Chadd Collins was widely expected by kickboxing fans. With the upcoming 24-man Featherweight Grand Prix also on the horizon, a meeting between the two seemed even more likely. However, RISE has raised the stakes by scheduling them to first compete for the RISE World 65 kg title on August 2nd. A potential second encounter could still happen within the Grand Prix tournament.
The journeys of both fighters leading up to this showdown share notable similarities. Collins, known as `Shark`, has maintained a long winning streak in kickboxing, interrupted only by two knockout losses to Miguel Trindade. The Japanese fighter, Haraguchi, boasts an equally successful history, with his only defeats coming against elite opponents: three decision losses to Petchpanomrung and one knockout loss to Miguel Trindade.
Securing a victory in this title fight holds immense importance for both athletes. It`s an opportunity to prove they remain at the very top of the division, gain a more favorable seeding and crucial momentum heading into the Featherweight Grand Prix, and claim the prestigious champion title.
In the 55 kg division, a title fight will determine the hierarchy as Masashi Kumura steps up to challenge the reigning champion, Shiro, for his RISE World 55kg belt.
This bout marks a rematch from THE MATCH 2022 event three years ago, where Kumura secured a unanimous decision victory over Shiro after scoring a knockdown in an otherwise tightly contested fight. With cross-promotional events between K-1 and RISE currently appearing to be on hold indefinitely, a rematch seemed improbable. However, Kumura`s departure from K-1 and his decision to remain competing in Japan have paved the way for this second encounter. The challenger aims to reaffirm his well-earned reputation as one of the division`s best fighters, despite a somewhat inconsistent record since their 2022 meeting, while Shiro seeks to avenge his previous loss and defend his title on home ground.
Shiro`s trajectory has been different recently, suffering only a single loss in a different weight class during this period. The champion will look to continue his winning form and correct the mistakes from their past encounter against Kumura.
Mentioned: Chadd Collins, Kento Haraguchi, Shiro, Masashi Kumura, Miguel Trindade, Petchpanomrung, RISE
Jack Thornley 
Oliver Croft