Sengoku Eighth Battle
Sengoku’s excellent featherweight tournament continued on the second of May. Looking back at this card, it is really clear the contrast between the two major Japanese promotions - Dream and Sengoku. Dream is gearing up for it’s “Super Hulk Tournament” and betting everything on their superstar Kid Yamamoto where as Sengoku make everyone one of their fighters work to get to the top and focus on prospects rather than “freaks” or already established stars. Although the ratings of Sengoku are much lower, I really love their events. The finals of this tournament are going to be amazing. I really have no idea who is going to take it.
I highly recommend you check out Tony Loiseleur’s interview with the man behind Sengoku, Takahiro Kokuho. Rarely do people speak to the press as bluntly as this in Japan.
Here are a few of my favourite images I shot at this event.
Sengoku gloves signed by tournament favourite Hatsu Hioki.
Fighters prepare in the ring at Yoyogi Gym before the crowd arrives.
Hatsu Hioki
Ronnie Mann prepares himself for Hioki.
Hioki again dominates another opponent with his triangle. Looking unstoppable... but so are Omigawa and Sandro.
The completely uncontrollable Maximo Blanco landing an fight ending illegal soccer kick.
The result. The victor by DQ - Akihiko Mori leaving on a stretcher.
Stanislav Nedkov knocking down Travis Wiuff in their foul fest.
Pancrase Champ Marlon Sandro saying a prayer before destroying Nick Dennis in a matter of seconds.
One of the best BJJ'ers in the world, Xande Riberio getting his second KO from two outings.
Fan Serivce.
Sengoku LW champ Satoru Kitaoka eyeing off possible challenger Kazunori Yokoto.
Michihiro Omigawa has been totally reborn as a fighter. For the second time in a row he destroys a highly touted fighter. This time - Nam Phan
Pancrase Neo Blood 2008 Champ Hirotoshi Saito landing a right.
"Sengoku Training Player" Shigeki Osawa pounding on Kota Ishibashi.
Way more photos at Sherdog. If you like what you see or want me have any photo requests, leave a comment!