Question from Readers:
What do you think about RIZIN’s Sakakibara? I find it strange that despite Asakura Mikito not lasting three matches and fainting without fighting even one round, he is not being forced to retire and is instead being used as the main event for the next Tokyo Dome. Are they planning to continue letting him fight for money even
if he loses by fainting again?
Thoughts on Sakakibara and RIZIN
Recently, discussions surrounding RIZIN’s Sakakibara have been heating up. Opinions about Asakura Mikito’s matches are divided, and I’ve given it some thought myself. I think many fans are worried about what will happen to him after that match. It certainly raises questions when a player who has fainted is not forced to retire but is instead being used as the main event for the next Tokyo Dome.
Empathy for Athletes and the Reality of Management
I personally love watching combat sports, and seeing the effort and sweat of the athletes really stirs my emotions. However, it may be a different story regarding how much people in Sakakibara’s position can truly understand the feelings of the athletes. From a business perspective, the ability of an athlete to attract an audience is crucial. I’ve touched on the discussions involving doctors and CEOs of large companies, and there are indeed many situations where calm judgment is necessary. I’ve been told by friends before that I tend to be too emotional. While it’s true that calmness is often required, I also feel that, since the lives of the athletes are at stake in combat sports, a bit more humanity in decision-making could be beneficial.
My Experiences and Emotions
As a father, seeing athletes fight while carrying the weight of their families makes it hard not to empathize with them. Recently, while watching a RIZIN match at home with my child, he asked, “Dad, why are the athletes fighting?” At that moment, I was at a loss for words. When faced with such pure curiosity, I felt the need to clearly convey the reasons why these athletes fight and the dramas that lie behind it. However, after the match, while sharing snacks with my child and saying, “The athletes are doing their best, so I’ll work harder too!” I felt a bit lighter. Ultimately, it’s our human emotions that drive us to cheer for them.
We Want to Hear Your Opinions!
So, what do you think? Please share your thoughts and experiences regarding Sakakibara’s decisions and Asakura’s future. The world of combat sports is full of dramas, and we want to enjoy it as part of that narrative. Looking forward to your comments!
