—How do you feel? And could you please give us your thoughts on your opponent Akebono?
I am getting more and more nervous. This fight is under shoot boxing rules but Akebono is a sumo and pro wrestler, so I am paying careful attention to his throws.

—What plan do you have when you fight under shoot boxing rules?
I practiced how to defend against takedowns a lot. I think footwork is really important for this. I have American size 20 feet so it was really tough for me! I also worked on my punching combinations, when my opponent breaks the distance how to use my elbows, and various takedown defenses.

—Are you confident of winning?
I am. But how am I going to win? I know I can’t throw him! But because it’s shoot boxing rules, it’s all about how your posture is and the points you get off take downs.

—And how did you go with your Thai training?
They taught me timing, and how to punch properly. The teacher who Gina Carano trained with, Master Toddy, taught me.

—It’s shoot boxing rules this time, but would you like to try MMA rules in Rizin?
I am concentrating on this fight right now. I think it all depends on how well Rizin succeeds in the future. There is an old saying that goes “in order to make the rabbit jump, you need lettuce”, and I think Mr. Sakakibara knows how to develop people and let them grow. I am really focused hard on this fight.

—Akebono has been practicing in a shoot boxing gym. What are your thoughts on that?
I didn’t know that! I think I am going to have a bad dream tonight (LOL!). I must be careful of this.

—Akebono has been out of MMA for quite a while. Will this have any effect on him do you think?
Even if he has been out for a while, it’s more important how quickly he can absorb and be fresh for the next fight. And because he has been in training in shoot boxing, he should be as fresh as a baby.