Hiromasa Ougikubo is anticipating a significant performance at Rizin Landmark 14 on June 6th, where he will defend his RFF flyweight championship against Makoto Shinryu in a rematch. Reflecting on the upcoming contest, Ougikubo highlighted what he perceives as distinct differences in his opponent compared to their previous encounter at Super Rizin 3 in July 2024. He stated, as reported by Bowks Talking Bouts:
“Shinryu is still very young, and it’s already been two years. I believe young fighters can develop considerably in two years. He’s been training at ATT, and I’m sure his skill level has certainly risen. However, I’ve also developed many skills over the past two years and feel I’ve leveled up as well. So, I think we’ll showcase a much higher-level fight than our first one.”
Also on the card is a bout that could be a title eliminator, though the reigning Rizin Fighting Federation 125-pound titleholder indicated the outcome might influence his perception. When discussing the Rizin Landmark 14 fight between Tony Laramie and Yuki Motoya, and the potential for the victor to earn a shot at Rizin’s flyweight crown, Hiromasa Ougikubo commented, via Bowks Talking Bouts:
“I think if Tony Laramie wins, if he beats Motoya, and obviously if I defeat Shinryu, it would make sense for me to defend my title against Tony Laramie. So, I consider that a no-brainer. However, if Motoya wins and I defend my title, I’m not sure if that fight would be logical. But ultimately, it will be up to Rizin.”
Hiromasa Ougikubo Aims for a Decisive Finish in His Rizin Landmark 14 Title Defense
Concluding his recent appearance on BTB with emphatic remarks, Ougikubo quipped, via Bowks Talking Bouts:
“I intend to knock him out in my first title defense. So please tune in and watch me finish this fight.”
