At this segment, we asked the fighters, people involved which fight they fought or saw became their turning point for their career.

—Kazuyuki Miyata
Kazuyuki Miyata is facing Hinata under MIX rules in the RIZIN ring. A turning point in his career was the fight against Black Mamba on March 3, 2007 (HERO’S 2007). He was a dedicated and highly successful wrestler, and this was his first fight where he could perform at his peak in MMA after making his debut in MMA in 2004. Miyata finished his opponent 3 min 38 sec of the first round by an inverted rear naked choke.

“I felt that I fought like a true MMA fighter. I was able to utilize all aspects from striking and grappling in that fight. I was finally able to realize that I was adopting to this sport. After that fight I went down a weight class and fought in DREAM, but I felt like I could compete with anybody without having the feeling inferior.

—Hinata
Kick boxing phenomenon Hinata, who will be fighting in RIZIN ring under MIX rules has picked the fight vs Andy Souwer as his turning point in his career. The 2 met on September, 16 for the second time during the REBELS 38 event this year. And Hinata won by unanimous decision. He was defeated by Andy when they first met in 2010, and Hinata finally managed to get his revenge.

“Being able to get a revenge after losing a fight is big deal to a fighter, it’s like overcoming a huge obstacle. When I fought him for the first time 5 years ago I realized how much punishment Andy can take. He’ll come back harder and stronger even after I knocked him down with my high kick. I think a fighter who has participated in world class events is mentally tougher. Being able to defeat such a fighter made me extremely happy. I realized in my potential of growing as a fighter.”