Chihiro Suzuki believes that Patricio Pitbull`s achievements in the UFC will enhance his own reputation in the MMA world. Suzuki famously defeated the Bellator champion in a non-title fight in July 2023.
Pitbull, a former two-division champion in Bellator with a victory over Suzuki`s rival Kleber Koike, is set to debut in the UFC on April 12 against Yair Rodriguez. This fight is seen as a potential title eliminator at UFC 314. Meanwhile, Suzuki is preparing for his own fight at RIZIN 50 against Karshyga Dautbek. Suzuki is confident that Pitbull will have a successful run in the UFC.
“I anticipate Pitbull will achieve great things in the UFC,” Suzuki stated. “He possesses remarkable credentials and numerous accomplishments, including being a champion in two divisions. While I defeated him that one night, I recognize his potential for success in the UFC.”
Suzuki himself has been successful in RIZIN, with an 8-2-1 record, including victories over Masanori Kanehara and Vugar Karamov.
“It’s natural that as Pitbull gains victories and prominence in the UFC, my own standing will rise,” Suzuki explained. “His success on a larger stage directly increases my value. This is a common dynamic in all competitive sports. I hope this will lead to a rematch with him if he becomes a UFC champion.”
RIZIN has seen other fighters transition to the UFC, such as Kai Asakura, who competed for the UFC flyweight title, and Kyoji Horiguchi, who is rumored to return. Suzuki is open to a UFC move if it benefits all parties involved.
“My decision depends on RIZIN fans,” Suzuki said. “If they support my move to the UFC to challenge myself there, I will consider it. However, if RIZIN fans prefer me to stay and fight in RIZIN, I will remain here.”
Suzuki is currently focused on his upcoming fight with Dautbek and predicts a first-round knockout victory.
“My confidence stems from past achievements,” Suzuki asserted. “Having knocked out a world champion like Pitbull gives me strong belief in my abilities. I have done what many couldn`t, and I know I can repeat that success.”
Suzuki recently lost his featherweight title to Koike in December. Reflecting on this, he mentioned learning valuable lessons about ground fighting. To improve, Suzuki has even started training with Koike and Roberto Satoshi in Japan.
“To defeat the new champion, Kleber, I realized I needed to learn from him,” Suzuki explained. “Learning from the champion is the best way to become the champion. I want to avenge my loss and improve, and learning from Koike is the most direct path to achieving that.”
Suzuki is considering a trilogy fight with Koike in the future, but only after they defend the RIZIN featherweight division from international fighters.
“Initially, training together didn`t change my desire to fight Koike again. I intended to learn from him and then defeat him,” Suzuki said. “However, training together has fostered a sense of camaraderie. We now share a common goal: to defend RIZIN’s featherweight division from international competitors. If a fight between us becomes necessary, we will approach it with sportsmanship. Realistically, I don`t currently wish to fight him.”
“If we do fight, it will be an opportunity to showcase the beauty of true sportsmanship in MMA. In a sport often dominated by trash talk and controversy, we can demonstrate respect and skill. When the time comes to potentially fight Kleber, we can show a different, more respectful side of MMA.”
