Yoshihiro Akiyama, who hasn’t seen action since parting ways with Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) back in late 2015, will return to mixed martial arts (MMA) in the co-main event of “Legendary Quest” on June 15, 2019, inside Baoshan Arena in Shanghai, China.
“Sexyama” turns 44 in July and will face 23 year-old Malaysian standout Agilan Thani. “Alligator” has fought 11 of his 12 pro fights under the ONE Championship banner and is coming off back-to-back losses to Zebaztian Kadestam and Kiamrian Abbasov.
“All I can do is just trust myself and move forward,” Akiyama wrote on Instagram.
After a successful run on the Japanese circuit, Akiyama (14-6, 2 NC) made his Octagon debut at UFC 100 in July 2009, capturing a hotly-contested split decision victory over middleweight stalwart Alan Belcher. After dropping his next three fights, “Sexyama” cut down to welterweight, but still only managed to go 1-2.
Maybe the future can bring us that Vitor Belfort rematch?