In the high-stakes world of mixed martial arts, where anticipation often precedes achievement, a new colossal presence is emerging from the shadow of a champion. While UFC light heavyweight king Alex Pereira prepares for his pivotal rematch at UFC 320, the spotlight is subtly shifting towards his imposing training partner, King Edokpolo. This 6`8″, 24-year-old heavyweight, currently undefeated in Rizin, has recently been seen alongside UFC President Dana White, a clear signal that the promotional giant is keenly observing his rapid ascent.
A Phenom in the Making
King Edokpolo`s journey to the cusp of MMA stardom is anything but conventional. A former baseball player of Nigerian and Japanese heritage, Edokpolo began his combat sports training relatively late. Yet, in just two short years, he has demonstrated an astonishing aptitude, prompting his head coach, Plinio Cruz – also Alex Pereira’s esteemed mentor – to declare him a “phenom.” Cruz, speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, painted a picture of raw, unbridled talent.
“He`s been training for two years but he`s a phenom,” Cruz remarked, emphasizing Edokpolo`s “super talented” nature and immense promise.
Such endorsements from a seasoned coach, particularly one guiding a two-division UFC champion, are not given lightly.
Training with Greatness
Sharing a training camp with a fighter of Alex Pereira`s caliber undoubtedly accelerates Edokpolo`s development. Pereira, a man accustomed to dwarfing opponents in the cage, reportedly has just one word for his towering training partner: “Grande,” which simply means “big.” A concise, almost understated assessment from a champion, yet profound in its implication. This isn`t just about physical size; it`s about the presence and potential that even a fighter like Pereira recognizes. Edokpolo`s ability to hold his own against an elite striker and champion, even in a different weight class, speaks volumes about his inherent skills and rapid absorption of complex techniques.
The Rizin-to-UFC Pathway
Despite the palpable interest from the UFC, Edokpolo currently remains under contract with Japan`s Rizin promotion. However, this is not an insurmountable barrier, but rather a well-trodden path. In recent times, Rizin has become a notable feeder league for the UFC, with several of its brightest stars eventually transitioning to the global stage. Fighters like Kai Asakura and Kyoji Horiguchi have successfully navigated this route, proving that a stint in the respected Japanese organization can serve as a potent proving ground before a grander debut. Plinio Cruz himself confirmed the UFC`s interest, acknowledging Edokpolo`s current contractual obligations while confidently stating,
“he`s potentially gonna be a big heavyweight star in the UFC one day.”
The Future of the Heavyweight Division
The heavyweight division in any combat sport is a realm where raw power often reigns supreme, but technical finesse and athletic prowess are increasingly vital. At 6`8″ and just 24 years old, Edokpolo possesses an enviable physical foundation. His rapid progression and the “phenom” label suggest a fighter who learns at an accelerated pace, capable of evolving into a dominant force. The question isn`t if he will eventually grace the UFC Octagon, but when, and what kind of impact he will make. With Alex Pereira`s guidance and Plinio Cruz`s expert tutelage, King Edokpolo represents a truly exciting prospect, a potential game-changer ready to infuse new blood and towering talent into the heavyweight landscape. The MMA world waits with bated breath to see if this “Grande” talent lives up to the grand expectations.