Hiramoto Slams Asakura for Bowing to Shaidullaev Ahead of Super RIZIN.5

Mixed martial artist Ren Hiramoto expressed disappointment with rival Mikuru Asakura for appearing submissive toward Rizabek Shaidullaev in a recent video, ahead of his own fight at Super RIZIN.5 on September 10 at Kyocera Dome Osaka. In a RIZIN YouTube documentary, Hiramoto criticized Asakura's friendly interaction with Shaidullaev, who defeated Asakura last New Year's Eve. He compared it to a former school bully submitting to a rival, saying Asakura should have at least claimed he could win in a rematch for fans. Hiramoto also commented on Asakura's upcoming fight against Akira Aoki at Super RIZIN.5, noting it was a risky opponent choice, while reflecting on his own match against Karshyga Dautbek at the same event.