Three-time ADCC world champion, IBJJF no-gi world champion, and a four-time Eddie Bravo Invitational champion Gordon Ryan will compete in a special open weight grappling match against Japanese legend Shinya Aoki, winner of ADCC Japan, Rickson Gracie’s Budo Challenge, and the Dumau/Kansai Cup, among other tournaments.
The bout will be contested for ONE Championship on Aug. 27, though a city and venue have yet to be determined. Ryan was recently signed to a ONE contract while Aoki has been competing for Chatri Sityodtong & Co. for the last several years.
Aoki, 38, will likely give up 50 pounds in weight (or more) to the 25 year-old Ryan.
The “Tobikan Judan” previously competed against Garry Tonon at ONE: “Dynasty of Heroes” back in 2017 and despite controlling the match early, succumbed to a heel hook from the New Jersey native.
Aoki is currently riding a four-fight win streak in MMA. As for Ryan, he’s coming off back-to-back submissions wins over Vagner Rocha and Roberto Jimenez at the “Who’s Number One?” event earlier this year in Texas.