The main highlights of RISE`s significant August event are undoubtedly a highly anticipated fight and an unexpected rematch.
RISE has announced two highly anticipated and competitive title bouts for their upcoming event in Tokyo on August 2nd, starting strong with major matchups.
A fight between Kento Haraguchi and Chadd Collins has long been expected by fans due to their reputations and rankings. With a 24-man Featherweight Grand Prix also planned, a meeting seemed likely. However, RISE has increased the stakes by scheduling them to first compete for the RISE World 65 kg title, although a tournament encounter remains a possibility.
Their paths to this confrontation share notable similarities. Collins, known as `Shark`, has maintained a long undefeated streak in kickboxing, interrupted only by two knockout losses to Miguel Trindade. Haraguchi also has a successful record, 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 bout is crucial for both fighters to prove they remain at the top of the division. It would also allow them to enter the upcoming Grand Prix with a higher seeding, significant momentum, and potentially, the champion status.
A championship fight in the 55 kg division will determine the hierarchy, as Masashi Kumura challenges Shiro for the RISE World 55kg title.
This rematch comes three years after their last encounter at the large collaborative event THE MATCH 2022. In that fight, Kumura won by unanimous decision after securing a knockdown in what was otherwise a very competitive bout. Due to the apparent halt in cross-promotional fights between K-1 and RISE, another match seemed improbable. However, Kumura`s departure from K-1 and his decision to stay in Japan have made this fight possible. The challenger aims to solidify his reputation as a top fighter in the division, despite his inconsistent record since his 2022 win.
Shiro`s recent career path has been different, with only one loss during this period, which occurred at a different weight class. The champion will look to continue his winning form and avenge his past defeat.
Murray Blackwood 
Gareth Pendleton