As we previously posted, Kyoji Horiguchi will face Ben Nguyen at RIZIN 15. The promotion also announced the following bouts for the event.

King Mo vs Jiri Prochazka
Kai Asakura vs Ulka Sasaki
Mikuru Asakura vs Luiz Gustavo

Speaking in front of the media, former UFC fighter Ulka Sasaki said, “I am very grateful to be given the opportunity to fight on the RIZIN platform in front of many enthusiastic Japanese fans. My next fight is set against Kai Asakura.

I am very happy to be able to create an atmosphere with the fans, and I am honored to be called out by Kai. I hope we both prepare properly and fight each other with everything we have with the utmost respect RIZIN has many competitive fighters. I think the Yokohama event will be packe with great fights. I hope all the fans come to watch the event. Kai, let’s put on the fight of the night.”

Former UFC flyweight title challenger, Horiguchi had the following to say about facing Ben. “I’m happy to be back. My opponent is a tough striker who has a legitimate ground game. This will be a fun but my goal is to win in exciting fashion.” “I am obligated to continue to grow the sport here in Japan, and I need to put on exciting fights.”

Ben Nguyen was also asked to give his thoughts on facing Horiguchi.

“Growing up watching PRIDE, it has always been my dream as a kid to fight in Japan and it is all coming true now”, Nguyen replied. “Horiguchi is a remarkable fighter on a hot streak right now but I know I can beat him. We are both predominately strikers so this fight will be explosive. I can’t wait to fight him!”

King “Mo” Lawal also gave his thoughts on fighting again in Japan.

“I’m excited to head back to Japan and get another one of RIZIN’s belts in April. I have a ton of respect for my opponent, but I’m on a mission to represent Bellator and put on a show for all of my Japanese fans. I promise you, he won’t be able to stop me from becoming Champion.”