Pre-fight press conference was held on December 25th, only 4 days out of the historical RIZIN FIGHTING WORLD GRAND-PRIX 2015 SAITAMA 3 DAYS event. Nobuyuki Sakakibara Chairman, General Manager Nobuhiko Takada, Baruto, Singh Jaideep, RENA, Akebono Taro, RIZIN Girls made their appearances.

The conference kicked off with the announcement of SkyperfetTV broadcasting the entire event live for both “Saraba Fiesta” on the 29th, and “IZA Saltation” on New Years Eve. After the announcement Sakakibara stated, “We have only 4 days left, and I want this event to be the turning point for Japanese made fight content to start a new era in fighting all over the world. And I would like to thank SkyperfectTV for live broadcasting the entire event for both days. Watching the live events on TV is another way to enjoy our content. This will be a fiesta, so I would like to celebrate and enjoy this fight extravaganza with everybody.”

General Manager Nobuhiko Takada appeared in front of the media after Sakakibara’s statement, “I’m sure you all had some doubts in your mind if we could pull this great fight extravaganza off, but we are now 4 days away. SkyperfectTV will air the entire event live. We have done everything we could for this day, and I would like the fighters to do what they do best, and inspire the audience who have been waiting for this. I want to leave a huge mark, and leave the world’s fight scene in shock. We will continue to put in 120% to make this a great event, and end the 31st in a tremendous way.”

After a brief photo session with 4 RIZIN girls, 4 fighters appeared in front of the media. Baruto, Singh Heart Jaideep, RENA, and Taro Akebono. When asked their thoughts by the MC, Baruto’s answered “I though the opportunity has finally come”, Singh “It was more of a surprise than anything”, RENA “I’ve never considered MMA so I first turned it down, but had second thoughts about it and decided to take the fight.” “I couldn’t believe it at first, but I’ve decided to think that this was a second opportunity given to me”, said Akebono.

Takada followed “I want this event to succeed, and give the fans the ultimate pleasure and excitement”. Sakakibara added “There was once a time when Japan was leading the Fight industry. I am thinking to pay my duties in bringing back the momentum of those days. If the young generation, children want to become fighters when they grow up, that will lead to our future.”

All fighters were asked their impressions about their opponents, “All I see is age. I’m beating him already” said Baruto about Jerome Lebanner, Singh said “He doesn’t look that tough when you see him, but he is totally different during a fight. It is scary that he only shows his aggression in a fight.” “I got to see her fights and she has a much longer reach than I anticipated. I can tell that she is a very tough girl” said RENA while Akebono had nothing to say about his opponent.

Takada followed by analyzing each fight, “Baruto has a great game plan. What really matters is how he can execute that plan during the fight. I think this will be a really exciting fight. I keep hearing about Jaideep’s mental toughness. We might be able to take part of the biggest upset in history of fighting if he performs at his maximum potential. RENA’s opponent hits a lot harder than we thought, so it may come down to who trained harder on the ground. RENA will become a monster if she fully commits to MMA, so I really want her to leave a good result in MMA, for herself and for Shoot Boxing. Akebono will be fighting in Shoot Boxing rules as well, and by adding this fight, the event has a much “festive” taste to it, and opened up a whole new variety of viewers.

When asked about their current training situation, “Nothing special. I’m just imagining fighting my opponent. I cannot predict the fight until I fight him. This is totally something new. Another key to the outcome of the fight is how soon I adopt to the ring” (Baruto). “If I’m able to go in there and not be intimidated and do my thing, I will have a great chance of winning. I would like to think to myself that Fedor wasn’t so great after the fight (Jaideep). “I’m adjusting to the different gloves. My MMA skills are improving a lot, so I’m excited to see what I can do. I will win this fight no matter what (RENA). “I used to not really pay attentions to the rules I fought in, but I believe that these rules are the best fit for a Sumo Wrestler. I understand clearly on what I can and cannot do. I am excited to be fighting in these rules (Akebono).

The conference concluded with all of the fighters sending the fans a message, “I want as many fans to come to the arena” (Baruto). “I want to put on a performance where everybody talks about my fight on New Year’s Day” (Jaideep), “The new organization will start off with a new star, so please look forward for the historical moment” (RENA). “I think our fight added flavor to the event. I finally understand where I stand. I will put on a performance which defines fireworks” (Akebono).