Question from a reader:
I have been thinking that RIZIN’s Sakakibara might be a psychopath. It seems a bit outrageous that, despite Asakura Mikuru losing consciousness and not being able to fight even one round in three matches, he is still being used as the main event for the upcoming Tokyo Dome. If Mikuru loses consciousness again, is the intention to
keep him fighting for money without forcing him into retirement?
Reflecting on Sakakibara’s Decisions
Recently, discussions about RIZIN’s Sakakibara have been heating up. Many people seem to question the decision to feature Asakura Mikuru as the main event at the Tokyo Dome, despite his recent loss of consciousness. I am one of those people and have been pondering this matter.
The Meaning of the Term Psychopath
When we hear the term “psychopath,” it often carries a dark connotation. However, it actually refers to individuals with low empathy. It’s surprising to note that even among high-ranking professionals like doctors and CEOs, there are quite a few psychopaths. If a doctor were to fully empathize with their patients’ suffering, they wouldn’t be able to provide effective treatment. A calm and rational approach is necessary for making decisions and carrying out required procedures.
Sakakibara’s Position
The same holds true in the world of combat sports. It can be challenging for a CEO to empathize with the emotions of athletes. Decisions must be made based on whether the event is financially viable. Asakura Mikuru is one of the few fighters who can attract a crowd to RIZIN at this time. It seems unlikely that he would be easily retired just because he lost consciousness. In my own experience working in the legal field, there are many instances where calm judgment is required. For example, if I become too emotionally involved with a client, it can hinder my ability to make sound decisions. In those moments, I realize the importance of setting emotions aside temporarily.
Human Emotion and Business
Running an organization with a “human touch” may work well in small groups, but it often fails in larger entities. Given that Sakakibara is responsible for the significant platform of RIZIN, he likely has no choice but to prioritize numbers over emotions. Just recently, I arrived at the office too early and ended up snacking on too many sweets before my colleagues arrived. The saying “there’s always room for dessert” rings true, and I found myself reaching for snacks. While these small moments can help relieve work stress, they do not contribute to making calm judgments.
Conclusion
Opinions on Sakakibara’s decisions are varied, but the reality he faces is extremely tough. To ensure the event is successful, it is crucial to consider not only the health of the athletes but also the business perspective. I am both excited and anxious about what the upcoming Tokyo Dome event will bring. What do you think? I would love to hear your opinions or experiences regarding Sakakibara’s decisions and the world of combat sports in the comments. I look forward to broadening our perspectives together.
