Rukiya Anpo, born on October 29, 1995, in Himeji, Japan, stands as a prominent Japanese kickboxer who has competed in both the super lightweight and welterweight categories. Since making his professional debut in 2011, Anpo has gained widespread recognition for his aggressive fighting style and impressive record. His commitment to martial arts and rapid rise through the ranks has positioned him as one of the sport’s most formidable athletes.
Early Life and Martial Arts Foundation
Anpo grew up in a martial arts environment alongside his twin brother, Riku Anpo. As children, the brothers showcased exceptional skills, and their story as Karate prodigies was featured in a Japanese television documentary. Their training in Kyokushin Karate laid a solid foundation for their future success in combat sports, setting the stage for Rukiya’s transition into kickboxing and MMA.
Transition to Kickboxing and Professional Debut
In 2011, Anpo shifted from Karate to kickboxing, marking the beginning of his professional journey. His natural talent and relentless drive quickly propelled him through the ranks, establishing his reputation in both the super lightweight and welterweight divisions.
Achievements in Kickboxing
K-1 Super Lightweight Champion: Anpo’s most notable achievement came when he won the K-1 Super Lightweight title. During his second title defense on March 22, 2020, at K-1: K’Festa 3, he faced Fukashi Mizutani and secured a unanimous decision victory, successfully defending his title. This victory demonstrated his dominance in the division.
Runner-up at K-1 Welterweight Grand Prix: In 2021, Anpo reached the finals of the K-1 Welterweight Grand Prix, showcasing his versatility and ability to compete at various weight classes.
Debut in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
To expand his skillset, Anpo entered the world of mixed martial arts. On December 31, 2023, he faced former Krush and K-1 welterweight champion Yuta Kubo in a special rules bout at Rizin 45. Unfortunately, Anpo lost the fight via rear-naked choke in the first round, marking a challenging start to his MMA career.
Exhibition Matches and Notable Bouts
Exhibition Match Against Manny Pacquiao: On July 28, 2024, Anpo participated in an exhibition match against boxing legend Manny Pacquiao at the Saitama Super Arena in Japan. The bout ended in a draw, but many fans expressed concerns over Pacquiao’s performance, claiming that he no longer appeared as dominant as he once did. This high-profile match elevated Anpo’s visibility in the world of combat sports.
Exhibition Bout Against Ryan Garcia: In December 2024, Anpo was set to face American boxer Ryan Garcia in an exhibition match in Tokyo. However, promotional conflicts and regulatory issues delayed the fight. Despite the setbacks, the proposed bout underscored Anpo’s rising popularity and the global interest in his fights.
Recent Exhibition Bout Against Sina Karimian
On December 31, 2024, Anpo faced Iranian kickboxer Sina Karimian in an exhibition match at RIZIN 49: Decade, held in Saitama, Japan. During the sixth round, the fight escalated into chaos as both fighters threw illegal spinning back fists, leading to a brawl that saw the referee punched twice.
Personal Life and Gym Ownership
In 2018, Anpo and his brother opened their gym, named All Win, in Osaka, Japan. The gym, funded through crowdfunding, reflects their commitment to martial arts and their desire to contribute to the local community by providing a space for aspiring fighters to train and develop their skills.
Online Presence and Media Engagement
Apart from his fighting career, Anpo has built a strong online presence. His YouTube channel, “saikyo01densetu,” offers a glimpse into his personal life and entertainment ventures. As of February 2023, the channel boasts over 666,000 subscribers and more than 238 million views, providing fans with an opportunity to connect with Anpo outside of the ring.
Future Prospects
As of January 2025, Anpo remains a significant figure in combat sports. His recent forays into exhibition matches and MMA showcase his versatility and willingness to challenge himself across various disciplines. Fans and analysts eagerly follow his career, eager to see what’s next for this dynamic and adaptive athlete.
Conclusion
From his early days as a Karate prodigy to his rise as a celebrated kickboxer and MMA fighter, Rukiya Anpo’s journey demonstrates his dedication, adaptability, and passion for martial arts. His continued success and determination inspire both fans and fellow athletes, establishing him as one of the brightest stars in the world of combat sports today.
FAQs
Who is Rukiya Anpo?
Rukiya Anpo is a Japanese kickboxer and mixed martial artist, born on October 29, 1995, in Himeji, Japan.
What are Rukiya Anpo’s major achievements in kickboxing?
Anpo is best known for winning the K-1 Super Lightweight Championship and successfully defending it in 2020.
Has Rukiya Anpo competed in MMA?
Yes
Did Rukiya Anpo fight Manny Pacquiao?
Yes.
Is Rukiya Anpo involved in other exhibitions or notable matches?
Anpo has participated in several exhibition matches, including one against Ryan Garcia, which was scheduled for December 2024 in Tokyo.
What is Rukiya Anpo’s role outside of fighting?
In 2018, Anpo and his brother opened a gym called All Win in Osaka, Japan.
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