Rizin Champion Hiromasa Ougikubo: Flyweight Division Rivals UFC's Elite

At 38 years old, Hiromasa Ougikubo continues to defy expectations, proving that age is merely a number as he re-establishes himself among the world's elite flyweights. Following his recent triumph, securing both the Rizin flyweight belt and the RFF 125-pound Grand Prix title, Ougikubo reflected on the secret to his sustained high-level performance in the sport.

He attributes his remarkable longevity to a dynamic approach to training. "Changing and adjusting my training based off of my age," Ougikubo explained. "I think that’s the secret to longevity." He elaborated, stating that his sparring sessions during fight camps have significantly decreased, nearly by half compared to his younger days. This reduction minimizes wear and tear, preventing cumulative damage to his body. Furthermore, he emphasizes extensive stretching to maintain his physical condition.

Ougikubo also previously held the Rizin bantamweight Grand Prix championship in 2021. When asked about the significance of winning RFF Grand Prix championships across multiple weight divisions, he expressed profound satisfaction. He highlighted that bantamweight was not his natural weight class, making his current victories in the flyweight division particularly meaningful. "For me to be able to win significant titles in my weight class is something that kind of solidifies what I have been doing throughout my career," he stated, seeing these wins as a definitive conclusion to a chapter of his professional journey.

Hiromasa Ougikubo Declares Rizin Flyweight Division "No Less Than the UFC’s"

Recalling his 2021 Rizin Fighting Federation GP win, which was famously followed by a marriage proposal, Ougikubo playfully noted the absence of a similar proposal after his RFF NYE 2025 Grand Prix victory. He had hoped to bring his family into the ring, though this didn't materialize. Reflecting on the final bout against Yuki Motoya, he described it as a "great fight" where both competitors gave their all, going "head to head, toe to toe." He emphasized the immense personal value of winning such a "tough, gritty fight," but ultimately, having the belt around his waist meant "more than anything."

Given that 125 pounds is his more natural weight category, and participating in another iconic New Year's Eve event—a show with rich tradition in Japan—Ougikubo acknowledged the immense significance of the moment. He views this accomplishment as a pivotal step forward. "My goal for me going forward is that I want to continue to raise the value of this Rizin flyweight belt," he declared. His ultimate ambition as champion is to elevate Rizin’s flyweight division to directly compete with the UFC’s flyweight division, ensuring that "the level of competition in the Rizin flyweight division is no less than the UFC’s flyweight division."