Riku Kazushima: Rise Flyweight Champion Triumphs in Non-Title Battle
RISE Flyweight Champion Riku Kazushima Victorious in Non-Title Super Fight
On February 23rd, 2024, RISE Flyweight Champion Riku Kazushima faced off against Khunsuk PetchyindeeAcademy in a thrilling non-title super fight. The bout was a back-and-forth battle, with Riku’s signature “God Left” hand not quite finding its mark against the taller Thai fighter. After an extension round, Riku’s hand was raised in victory, though he expressed some dissatisfaction with the result.
“Kickboxers don’t cry!”
Following the fight, the champion reaffirmed his commitment to becoming an even better fighter worthy of the title he holds. Riku left the crowd with his iconic catchphrase: “Kickboxers don’t cry!”
In a recent interview with western media, Riku discussed his lifelong passion for martial arts, which began at the age of 5 with gloved karate. He rose through the ranks, winning six championships and tournaments as an amateur kickboxer before turning professional.
Riku has been with the same gym, Oikawa Dojo in Osaka, Japan, since childhood. The kickboxing and karate gym, run by former Shootboxing Super Featherweight champion Tomohiro Oikawa, has been the home of many renowned Japanese fighters.
Since his professional debut in RISE, Riku has fought for the title twice, first losing to current Bantamweight champion Toki Tamaru, then winning the Flyweight title against Tenshi Matsumoto in 2023. Kazushima’s powerful left straight punch, dubbed the “God Left,” has been instrumental in his six professional knockout victories.
The champion believes he thrives when facing strong opponents and finds great joy in the preparation and experience of professional fighting. Becoming a titleholder has brought Riku more recognition, support, and motivation to cement his status as the best Flyweight in Japan and the world.
Riku’s pursuit of international experience has taken him to Thailand, where he trained at the renowned Wor.Auracha gym, learning to bridge the gap between kickboxing and Muay Thai. Looking ahead, the Osaka native plans to defend his belt in Japan before expanding his reach globally, determined to prove he is the world’s top Flyweight.
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