RIZIN 52: March 7 Show Features High-Profile MMA Action Rizin Fighting Federation kicks off its 2026 season with Rizin 52, a card packed with high-stakes matchups and standout fighters. The main event will feature former Bellator champion and UFC veteran Patchy Mix facing off against rising Japanese star Kyoma Akimoto. The co-main event promises a clash of PRIDE legacies as Luiz Gustavo, a protege of Wanderlei Silva, takes on Taisei Sakuraba, the son of MMA legend Kazushi Sakuraba. Additional bouts include former UFC fighter Carlos Mota challenging wily striker Yuki Ito, while 48-year-old veteran Hideo Tokoro meets grappling specialist Jinnosuke Kashimura in a generational showdown. Former LFA bantamweight champion John Sweeney also headlines a fight against 50+ fight veteran Shoko Sato. For first-time viewers, Rizin 52 offers a unique experience distinct from traditional MMA promotions. The organization’s rules allow knees and soccer kicks to a downed opponent, and matches are judged based on overall performance rather than round-by-round scoring. The event will take place in a ring, further distinguishing it from other promotions. The guide to watching Rizin 52 includes start times varying by region. In North America, the show airs on March 6 at 9 p.m. PT and March 7 at 12 a.m. ET. Streaming options include Rizin Premium Pass, individual PPV purchase for $19.99 with English commentary from Michael Schiavello and Damien Brown, and Rizin Live for international viewers. The latter costs 5500 yen for advance purchase or 6000 yen on the day of. The full card includes: Kyoma Akimoto vs. Patchy Mix, Luiz Gustavo vs. Taisei Sakuraba, Ryo Takagi vs. Shuya Kimura, Viktor Kolesnik vs. Koji Takeda, Saori Oshima vs. Kate Lotus, Yuki Ito vs. Carlos Mota, Hideo Tokoro vs. Jinnosuke Kashimura, Kyung Po Kim vs.#rizin_fighting_federation #patchy_mix #kyoma_akimoto #luiz_gustavo #taisei_sakuraba
