Fighting Network RINGS

[Control21]

Fighting Network RINGS - "Korakuen League II"

October 5th, 1996

Korakuen Hall

Tokyo, Japan

Attendance: 1,348

Kazuyuki Fujita vs Akihiro Gono

Fujita has the clear size advantage on Gono, but that doesn’t deter the former SHOOTO prospect from going to work and trying to beat his opponent with speed and conditioning. Fujita weathers the storm as Gono tries to get him to the canvas, and instead does the honors on his own as he locks in Gono for a modified belly-to-back suplex. Gono does his best to get something going, but Fujita is too strong and keeps him from doing anything too dangerous. Fujita establishes a 3-0 lead by the 6:00 mark through basic submission attempts, although ones that have plenty of strength and intent behind them. Gono manages to get a point when he catches Fujita by surprise when he wraps his legs around one of Fujita’s for a spinning leg takedown, which is then transitioned into a heel hook. Fujita goes for the rope break but soon finishes the match when he gets Gono on the canvas and works in a kata-gatame (shoulder hold) for the submission victory. Fujita defeats Gono via submission (kata-gatame), 8:07

Caol Uno vs Carlos Newton

Uno, the SHOOTO prodigy, gives Newton a run for his money but it is the Canadian grappler who comes out on top in a very exciting match for grappling aficionados. While Uno was very quick on the draw and surprised Newton a few times with well-timed palm strikes leading to a knockdown, Newton was very patient and waited for key openings to get Uno down to the mat and wear him out with his experience and knowledge in various grappling techniques. Uno had most of the crowd behind him as a promising talent for RINGS, but this didn’t prevent Newton from carrying on and finishing the job with a 5-3 lead on points as he got Uno to the mat one more time around the 9:00 mark and snags a rear-naked choke for the victory. Newton defeats Uno via submission (rear-naked choke), 9:14

Hayato Sakurai vs Naoyuki Taira

In an interesting matchup between two very talented wrestlers in their own ways, Hayato Sakurai continued his fine form and found a way against Naoyuki Taira, who posed a tough challenge for the young, promising talent. Taira established an early advantage in the match, knocking down Sakurai twice with a fine display of striking. Sakurai eventually found his flow, and caught Taira with a nice combo of strikes in return, and started to establish himself on the canvas, where the rest of the match, mostly, took place. Taira and Sakurai engaged in a grappling battle where both were able to demonstrate good counterwork and technique to counter each other’s strengths. Sakurai is quick to find openings, especially while going for Taira’s legs, but Taira knows how to keep his opponent at bay. Not a lot of rope breaks were needed here, and the decisive moment comes when Sakurai finally catches Taira by surprise with a Huzinga roll, before transitioning into a position for a cross-armbreaker and the submission victory. Sakurai defeats Taira via submission (cross-armbreaker), 11:19

Wanderlei Silva vs Christopher Haseman

Haseman, the lone RINGS Australia representative, was able to hold his ground against Silva to some degree. Silva’s strikes were too much to handle though, and the Brazilian wore down his opponent eventually by landing big shots when needed. Haseman’s grappling skills gave Silva some trouble early on, and Haseman was able to score two points early by making his opponent grab the ropes to prevent nicely timed submission attempts. As Silva grew into the match though, he found his rhythm and started to land several powerful knees to Haseman’s abdomen as the Australian continued to clinch with Silva. Silva scored back-to-back knockdowns as he softened Haseman up with these knees, using a combination of palm strikes and lower leg kicks to keep Haseman off-balance. Haseman gets Silva down to the canvas again, but can’t get too much going as fatigue from Silva’s strikes begins to set in. Silva is able to break Haseman’s hold and eventually finds an opening to land a high kick to end the match via KO. Another strong win for Wanderlei Silva as he continues to establish himself in the RINGS format. Silva defeats Haseman via KO, 7:51

Rumina Sato vs Sanae Kikuta

Two very talented grapplers delivered as expected as the two pushed each other to the limit in the fine arts of grappling. Sanae Kikuta had somewhat of a size advantage on Sato and was able to keep Sato from using his speed to gain the advantage on the mat. It doesn’t take long for Sato to get going though, and begins to test Kikuta by using sly counterwork to find openings, and the two find themselves using two rope breaks apiece before the 5:00 mark. Sato and Kikuta prefer to keep things on the canvas, but they do test each other with strikes here and there as Sato shows he is more willing to throw palm strikes to get the advantage. Kikuta continues to apply pressure by using his talent and Judo skills to frustrate Sato. Sato does his best to keep things interesting, and the match continues with both exchanging rope breaks in a fairly even contest. Sato attempts to show off his inner Volk Han by using his natural athleticism to attempt a flying omoplata, but Kikuta calmy finds a way out of this sudden predicament and gets the crowd behind him with a confident display of counterwork against Sato. Sato also attempts a kani-basami (flying leg takedown), but Kikuta blocks this attempt and reverses it into a quick Judo takedown. After a very engaging contest that kept the Korakuen crowd on the edge of their seats for 15:00 minutes, Kikuta finds Sato’s legs for a double-leg lift that transitions into a belly-to-belly suplex. Kikuta immediately goes for a keylock as Sato struggles to break free and eventually taps. Kikuta gets some more momentum as he heads into the 1996 Mega Battle Tournament. Kikuta defeats Sato via submission (keylock), 15:24

[Autistic Dragon]

I like using Korakuen Hall for these smaller cards. Creates a nice B-show setting between your major shows.

[Control21]

Card Announcement:

Fighting Network RINGS - "Mega Battle Tournament 1996: First Round"

October 25th, 1996

Aichi Gymnasium

Nagoya, Japan

Yoshihisa Yamamoto vs Grom Zaza

Sanae Kikuta vs Todor Todorov

Kazushi Sakuraba vs Mitsuya Nagai

Tsuyoshi Kohsaka vs Dick Vrij

Bitsadze Tariel vs Nikolai Zouev

Kiyoshi Tamura vs Mikhail Ilyukhin

Volk Han vs Masayuki Naruse

Semmy Schilt vs Frank Shamrock

Akira Maeda vs Yoshihiro Takayama

 

 

[Autistic Dragon]

The Mega Battle Tournament looks poised to have a strong start.

[Control21]

Fighting Network RINGS - "Mega Battle Tournament 1996: First Round"

October 25th, 1996

Aichi Gymnasium

Nagoya, Japan

Attendance: 5,006

The RINGS theme plays in the arena as Lenne Hardt, a newcomer and talented voice actress/announcer, introduces the Mega Battle Tournament participants as they form up in the arena with a healthy reception for all, but especially for Kiyoshi Tamura and Yoshihisa Yamamoto. Lenne Hardt's unique and charismatic style of announcing quickly becomes apparent. Akira Maeda and Yoshihiro Takayama get a huge reception too, and Akira Maeda speaks to the fans, thanking them for coming. Maeda says his time off from injury has been difficult, but he has been training hard and chose Takayama as his opponent specifically because he believes he is a formidable opponent. 

Yoshihisa Yamamoto vs Grom Zaza

The Georgian grappler with a background in both amateur wrestling and SAMBO presents a tough challenge for Yamamoto, but the RINGS dojo product comes firings back around the 12:00 mark after being down 5-3 on points to score a knockdown on Zaza. Yamamoto manages to grapple with Zaza and secures a victory after locking in his opponent with a triangle armbar Zaza taps and the fans celebrate as Yamamoto advances! Yamamoto defeats Zaza via submission (triangle armbar), 12:42

Sanae Kikuta vs Todor Todorov

Todor and Kikuta ensure the fans have an exciting match, as both pull out some slick grappling maneuvers and submission attempts. Todorov roughs up Kikuta a few times with his flashy throwing maneuvers and shoot suplexes. Kikuta holds steady though, and stays in the match that is fairly even throughout. Kikuta finds angles through this great counterwork to trap Todorov in a few submission attempts, and Kikuta has the lead of 4-2 near the 11:00 mark. After Todorov lands a a high-angle belly-to-belly suplex on Kikuta, Kikuta is forced to work from the bottom and manages to sweep Todorov before establishing side control and a keylock which gives him the victory! Todorov is frustrated but shows good sportsmanship by shaking Kikuta’s hand to healthy applause for both competitors. Kikuta defeats Todorov via submission (keylock), 11:35

Kazushi Sakuraba vs Mitsuya Nagai

Sakuraba gives Nagai all he can handle, and Nagai tries to maintain control of the match through his striking skills. Sakuraba wants to keep the match on the canvas but is willing to trade blows with Nagai when needed, and shows off some of the striking skills he learned in the UWFI dojo through Muay Thai training. Nagai gets more frustrated with himself as he is unable to find much of an opening, with Sakurba using great defense and quick counterwork. Nagai manages to score a knockdown, which gets the match at 5-2 near the 10:30 mark in Sakuraba’s favor. Nagai attempts to launch a fierce comeback, with the crowd favoring the RINGS dojo product as he shows good fighting spirit. Sakuraba has other ideas, and manages to score a surprise Judo throw followed by a cross armbreaker for the submission victory! Nagai shakes Sakuraba’s hand but walks to the back quickly, looking upset. Sakuraba celebrates in the ring as the crowd shows their appreciation for the newcomer as well. Sakuraba defeats Nagai via submission (cross armbreaker), 11:16

Tsuyoshi Kohsaka vs Dick Vrij

The Dutch kickboxer opens up an early 4-0 lead as he scores two quick knockdowns on Kohsaka, who has to adjust his gameplan quickly as Vrij looks to establish himself once again as one of the most dangerous strikers in RINGS. Kohsaka settles in and mixes up his great grappling skills with some respectable palm strikes as well. Vrij steadily loses his momentum as Kohsaka manages to get him to the ground a bit more midway through the match. Vrij is a decent grappler and can defend himself when needed, but Kohsaka is too much of a killer on the canvas and he eventually gets back into the match at 4-2, still in favor of Vrij. Vrij turns up the heat a bit and looks for the knockout blow, but begins to get Kohsaka on his backfoot. As Kohsaka looks to be out of sorts and on the verge of being knocked out, Vrij launches a high kick which Kohsaka somehow counters! Kohsaka’s counter comes by the way of a vicious palm strike which sends Vrij into a daze. Kohsaka follows up with a palm strike combo, and Vrij is sent to the canvas! Vrij tries to beat the ten count but stumbles all over. Ryogaku Wada finishes the count and calls for the bell. Kohsaka wins via KO! Kohsaka defeats Vrij via KO, 12:51

Bitsadze Tariel vs Nikolai Zouev

A contrast in style as Zouev, the SAMBO-based grappler, has to work his way through the massive Bitsadze Tariel, who is a Kyokushin Karateka. Tariel appears to have the advantage early, as he mixes in well-timed strikes and clinches to dictate the match. The Georgian jumps out to a 2-0 lead after scoring the first knockdown in the match. Zouev gets back up quickly and readjusts his gameplan as he lets the Georgian kick him some more, this time the SAMBO specialist is ready and gets Tariel down the mat after catching one of the kicks for a single-leg takedown. Zouev manages to get Tariel to spend more time on the canvas, where Zouev’s opponent is quite uncomfortable. The match evens up at 2-2 after Zouev forces Tariel to go for the ropes twice. As one would expect, Zouev isn’t particularly flashy with his submission skills like Volk Han is, but he gets the job done through his finesse and ability to find opportunities to lock in a submission. Tariel manages to get some more offense in though, and things are tied at 5-5 in an excitingly even match heading into the 11:00 mark. Zouev is one step ahead of Tariel here, and he manages to turn one of Tariel’s clinch attempts into a leg sweep takedown. Zouev quickly finds a heel hook for the submission victory. Zouev defeats Tariel via submission (heel hook), 11:22

Kiyoshi Tamura vs Mikhail Ilyukhin

The first meeting between these two was as exciting as you would expect, with both competitors being well-conditioned and having the ability to combine their athleticism with natural grappling ability. Tamura appeared to be too quick for Ilyukhin at first, but the Russian quickly adapted and found the pace needed to keep up with his opponent. Most of this match occurs on the canvas, and there is a ton of great counterwork. The ebb and flow of this match is back and forth, with Tamrua and Ilyukhin trading periods of dominance on the mat. Tamura’s hyper-realistic transition skills are enough to give him the points when needed. Ilyukhin’s strength and SAMBO skills present some opportunities for him and manages to nearly submit Tamura with a cross-ankle hook, but Tamura manages to get the ropes just in time. Tamura shows off his striking ability towards the end of the match and catches Ilyukhin off-guard with a series of high kicks. Tamura follows up by getting his opponent to the canvas with a tricky feint and quickly locks in a rear-naked choke near the center of the ring. Ilyukhin thinks about trying to fight out of it but chooses to tap once the inevitable becomes clear. Tamura defeats Ilyukhin via submission (rear-naked choke), 14:40

Volk Han vs Masayuki Naruse

Volk Han and Masayuki Naruse are familiar with each other, having a series of great bouts earlier in the decade. At this point, Volk Han is widely recognized as the secondary star to Akira Maeda and the most formidable foe in RINGS. Naruse is a lot more experienced, but as he finds out during this match, Volk Han is just too good at this point. The Dagestani SAMBO specialist puts Naruse through another masterclass in submission grappling, and Naruse isn’t able to get much going here. He does appear to put up a fight at one point when he manages to knockdown Volk Han with a nice striking combo, but Han gets back up and sticks to the same gameplan. Even as Naruse escapes a double wristlock attempt from Volk Han, the technical wizard manages to end the match with another amazing submission hold, this time it’s a combination of an ashi-kansetsu leg-lock and a kubi-hishigi neck crank. Han defeats Naruse via submission (leg-lock into neck-crank), 10:24

Semmy Schilt vs Frank Shamrock

The two former Pancrase stars square off and deliver a very exciting match that is full of great striking and grappling. Schilt, the 6’11 Dutchman, has tremendous reach and keeps Shamrock busy throughout the match. Shamrock has to be smart and uses brief opportune moments to close the distance. Schilt appears to be in control after knocking down Shamrock twice in the first few minutes. Shamrock establishes himself in the match though, and gets a point on the board after managing to take down Schilt with a nice double-leg takedown, and then finding a kimura from side control. Schilt reaches for the ropes easily, and the referee stands both back up. Schilt still poses a significant threat to Shamrock though, and with a 6-1 lead after scoring another knockdown, Shamrock appears to be in real danger. The American manages to get the Dutch giant to the canvas again, and this time he keeps him on the mat for a longer period. This gives Shamrock the chance to wear down Schilt and snag a katagatame. This hold prevents Schilt from using his reach to go for a rope break, and Schilt appears to pass out instead of tapping. The referee is quick to break the hold as Schilt fades out and gives Shamrock the victory. Shamrock defeats Schilt via submission (katagatame), 9:45

Akira Maeda vs Yoshihiro Takayama

Akira Maeda’s long-awaited return from injury is finally here, and his opponent is given the chance to prove himself in a very high-level spot despite not being in the Mega Battle Tournament. Takayama takes the initiative and immediately goes on the offensive. Using a mix of his trademark kicks and knees from the clinch, Takayama throws off his senior opponent very early, and Maeda is forced to contend with the young upstart more than he expected. Despite being in better shape than the last time we saw him, Maeda looks slow and a bit behind Takayama’s movements. Takayama appears to have endless energy as he keeps bringing it to Maeda, delivering sweet combos and nice strikes as he looks for an early knockdown. Maeda manages to get something going with some low kicks followed by fists to Takayama’s abdomen, but Takayama is very determined to win this match!

The crowd gets more behind Maeda as he appears to be in danger, and this gives Maeda the second wind needed to get back into the match and assert himself. Takayama probably avoided going to ground with Maeda as he knew Maeda was a lot more experienced here, and he realizes that quickly as Maeda manages to take him down. Maeda is an expert at positioning, and he slows down the tempo as he patiently looks for submission attempts. Maeda gets a shoulder hold near the ropes, which finally forces Takayama to go for the ropes to break it. The next part of the match is quite thrilling as Maeda and Takayama trade knockdowns, with both demonstrating their powerful kicking abilities. While they go down to the mat a few times, this match is mostly a slugfest and Takayama proves to be resilient even as the jam-packed Aichi Gym is fully behind their hero. With the match tied at 6-6 heading into the 15:00 mark, Takayama unleashes everything he has on Maeda. The two continue to go at each other like heavyweight prize fighters, and Takayama manages to pull off the shocking upset as he knocks down Maeda two more times, with the last coming through a series of knees to Maeda’s abdomen. The crowd is in shock as the bell rings and Takayama is declared the winner. Maeda embraces Takayama and the two hug as Takayama has his hand raised by RINGS' president and ace. Takayama defeats Maeda via TKO, 17:09

The crowd is in shock still, but they are still pleased by the outcome and some chants for Takayama can be hard as the two work their back behind the curtains. The RINGS commentary team recap tonight's events and hype up the next show in November for the second round of the Mega Battle Tournament. Akira Maeda gives his comments backstage and says Takayama was too quick for him tonight, and that he has a bright future in RINGS. Maeda says that it will be interesting to see who wins the Mega Battle Tournament and that a lot of people looked strong tonight, including Yamamoto. Maeda suggests that Takayama should face the winner of the Mega Battle Tournament sometime next year. Maeda finishes the interview by saying that he wants another challenge next month, and has an opponent in mind, mentioning Ricardo Morais from Brazil as a possibility. The show closes off with the WOWOW end credits and sign-off. 

 

[Autistic Dragon]

An action packed first round to the Mega Battle Tournament. I was particularly gripped by Kohsaka's come from behind win. Honestly surprised to see Maeda go so early.

[Control21]

 

Quote

 

Wrestling "News and Notes" Newsletter

November 5th, 1996

• The first round of the Mega Battle Tournament on 10/25 drew a reported crowd of 5,006. The show was said to be very good and featured several good to outstanding matches, including Takayama's surprising win over Akira Maeda in the main event. Takayama got a huge reception from the crowd after his win. Maeda praised Takayama afterward and said that he should face the winner of the Mega Battle Tournament sometime next year. Maeda said that the loss was disappointing but he will bounce back and is looking forward to his next challenge next month. The current rumor going around is that Akira Maeda will face Ricardo Morais in the main event at the next show later this month. Richardo Morais previously defeated Yoshihisa Yamamoto in August. It is a bit surprising Takayama wasn't in the tournament but may be benefitting from a separate push.
• The next round of the Mega Battle Tournament is shaping up to be exciting, with matches like Kazushi Sakuraba vs Kiyoshi Tamura and Volk Han vs Tsuyoshi Kohsaka. Frank Shamrock had an interview with a fitness magazine last week and hyped up RINGS as the best wrestling promotion in the world. Shamrock said that he made the switch from Pancrase because the schedule was too difficult on his body and that RINGS offered more money. He saw a very good opportunity to lead RINGS' USA branch and promised to bring home the RINGS tournament trophy. Plans are in the works to set up a RINGS USA office branch to help scout for more talent. 
• Akira Maeda also had an interview with Tokyo Sports where he promoted the Mega Battle tournament. The interview was brief, but Maeda made the point to call out Atsushi Onita for his antics and said that Onita was too afraid to show up to a RINGS show because he knew he couldn't stand up to "real" wrestlers. Maeda suggested that Onita face him at the Tokyo Dome next year and was willing to work with Onita if he wants to, but claimed Onita was "more interested in being a Hollywood C-star than wrestling."

 

[Autistic Dragon]

Maeda throwing shade at Onita. Rings setting up a USA branch would be a huge step forward.

[Control21]

Fighting Network RINGS - "Mega Battle Tournament 1996: Second Round"

November 22nd, 1996

Osaka-jō Hall

Osaka, Japan

Attendance: 8,068

 

Lenne Hardt welcomes everyone to tonight's event and introduces the competitors one by one, with large receptions for Akira Maeda, KiyoshI Tamura, Yoshihisa Yamamoto, Kazushi Sakuraba, Yoshihiro Takayama, Volk Han, and Frank Shamrock. Ricardo Morais gets a strong welcome as well. The WOWOW commentators recap last month's events and highlight tonight's tournament matches and the story behind tonight's main event with Akira Maeda attempting to get revenge on Ricardo Morais for squashing Yamamoto in August. We see tonight's tournament competitors getting ready backstage before the first match.

Akihiro Gono vs Rumina Sato

A fun opener to get the crowd going. Gono and Sato have a high-paced match that demonstrates the athletic ability of both. There’s a ton of quick counterwork and smooth transitions here, with both not willing to give an inch to their opponent. While mostly a display of fine grappling, Gono’s striking causes Sato some issues at times, with Gono getting an early 4-1 lead on Sato after two knockdowns. Sato keeps the pressure on Gono though, and eventually retakes the lead at 5-4 after Sato establishes control on the canvas. By the 11:00 mark, Sato is in clear control and wins the match after he submits Gono with a flying armbar that gets a very good reception from the crowd. Sato defeats Gono via submission (flying armbar), 11:41

Naoyuki Taira vs Caol Uno

Taira and Uno pick up where the previous match left off, and go at it for 10 minutes plus with non-stop action. Taira’s striking is on top form, but Uno answers right back with some solid counters, and the match is tied 4-4 within the first few minutes with both trading some surprising knockdowns. Taira and Uno also go at it on the canvas, and they are evenly matched here as well with Taira using his experience to catch Uno off guard, as the young Shooto prospect mostly relies on his athletic skills. Regardless, Uno eventually catches Taira with a very smooth rolling takedown, and he quickly transitions into a kneebar which causes Taira to tap. Uno defeats Taira via submission (rolling kneebar), 10:22

Yoshihiro Takayama vs Dick Vrij

Takayama continues his great form as he gives Dick Vrij everything he can handle. The Dutch kickboxing maestro is unable to exert his will on Takayama, who mixes his strong striking skills with some nasty suplexes. Dick Vrij grows increasingly flustered and throws some very stiff knee strikes. One of them appears to catch Takayama square in the face and a bit of blood comes pouring out a cut above his left eye. Takayama gets treated by the cutman, and quickly goes back to work on Vrij, returning Vrij’s medicine with a vicious combo of stiff palm strikes and punches to the stomach. Vrij is dazed and is caught in a Maeda-esque Capture suplex from Takayama and the referee calls for a 10-count. Leading the match at 6-2, Takayama decides to take Vrij to the canvas, who is unable to defend himself from a well-timed Katahajime from Takayama. Takayama defeats Vrij via submission (Katahajime), 11:04

Yoshihisa Yamamoto vs Sanae Kikuta

Sanae Kikuta has been on a roll and possibly fought himself into the Mega Battle Tournament with his impressive wins earlier, but Yamamoto is a tougher challenge. Kikuta isn’t intimidated though, and puts the pressure on Yamamoto early but getting him to the canvas. Yamamoto is a good grappler in his own right, but Kikuta has proven himself to be quite effective in this department and makes Yamamoto go to the ropes early in the match. Yamamoto finds himself trying to fight from behind again, and this is perhaps his strong suit. With each passing minute, Yamamoto gets more fire in him and throws stiffer palm strikes as Kikuta puts him to the test in the striking game as well. Yamamoto also begins to figure out Kikuta’s movement on the canvas and fights for openings better, especially as Kikuta makes the mistake of getting into a leg lock battle with Yamamoto, who is a bit of a veteran when it comes to that in RINGS. The match is tied at 5-5 in points by the 12:00 mark after a further exchange in rope breaks by both, and the last two minutes see Yamamoto and Kikuta give a very strong performance from the crowd as they exchange more strikes and both teeter on the brink of a knockout. Kikuta tries to clinch with Yamamoto to buy more time as exhaustion sets in, but Yamamoto fires back with Muay Thai knee strikes followed up by a nice combo of palm strikes. Kikuta stumbles to the canvas and the referee begins the 10 count. Kikuta can’t find his legs before the referee reaches the magic number, giving Yamamoto the victory! Yamamoto defeats Kikuta via KO, 14:13

Kiyoshi Tamura vs Kazushi Sakuraba

As expected, these two are right at it as the crowd becomes very lively for a highly anticipated matchup between two rivals from UWFi. Tamura and Sakuraba pick up where they left off several months ago, and engage in a terrific grappling contest where the counterwork and transitions on the canvas are top-notch. Sakuraba and Tamura know each other very well, and neither gets control of the match as they read each other’s moves like the back of their hand. The pace keeps up for the next few minutes, and the crowd eats up every moment. It appears both of these competitors are willing to use the ropes for a break, perhaps to please their egos. Sakuraba is finally able to get Tamura to go for the ropes around the 6:00 mark after he smartly goes for a heel hook and gives Tamura something to think about. Tamura gets fired up and lures Sakuraba into a striking contest as he shows off very sharp kicks and knee strikes in the clinch. Sakuraba fights his way through, avoiding a knockdown, and reminds Tamura that he knows a thing or two about kicking as well. The match continues to be a back-and-forth affair, with Tamura getting the score even at 1-1 after he tries to catch Sakuraba in a guillotine choke near the ropes. Tamura establishes more control of the match on the canvas, getting Sakuraba to slow down a bit as he looks for control of Sakuraba’s back more often. Sakuraba tries to scramble when needed, but Tamura has a better read on him this time. The minutes add on, and it feels like Tamura can’t quite get Sakuraba where he needs him, but a moment of magic comes around the 15:00 mark. Sakuraba attempts to turtle up and get Tamura in a roll, but Tamura doesn’t relent and stays on top of Sakuraba. As Sakuraba tries to roll through, Tamura comes along with him and ends up locking him in a rear-naked choke at the end of the move. Sakuraba struggles to get the ropes and begins to think about passing out instead of tapping, but for some reason he relents and taps the canvas, giving the referee a signal to end the match. Tamura jumps up and celebrates, and the two begrudgingly shake hands afterward. Tamura defeats Sakuraba via submission (rear-naked choke), 15:31

On the WOWOW broadcast, there's a break in between matches as the commentators go over the recent SAMBO World Championships event in Japan, which leads into a highlights package:

 

Volk Han vs Tsuyoshi Kohsaka

Kohsaka and Han meet again for the third time this year, and Kohsaka immediately takes it to Volk Han with an opening flurry of palm strikes. Volk Han avoids most trouble here and prepares for a scrappy contest with the up-and-coming native RINGS star. Han catches Kohsaka on the counter and slips behind his opponent for a standing shime-waza (strangulation technique). Kohsaka goes down to the mat as Volk Han drags him down, but he quickly turns out of the hold and finds his way out of it. Kohsaka and Volk Han stand back up, and Kohsaka continues to put pressure on his Dagestani opponent by throwing a variety of strikes. Volk Han catches one of these strikes and surprises Kohsaka again by getting him in a standing double-wrist-lock, but Kohsaka counters with a sweet hand-wheel throw that lands Volk Han squarely on his head. A bit shocked, Volk Han tries to buy some time as he gets Kohsaka in a kneebar on the canvas, but the hold is weak and since both are near the ropes, the referee stands them both back up. The match continues with a fired-up Kohsaka continuing to apply pressure on Volk Han whenever he gets the chance, with Volk Han trying to catch his opponent with a surprise hold or two that Kohsaka works his way out of, leading to a 2-0 lead for Volk Han at the halfway point.

Volk Han catches a kick from Kohsaka, which he turns into an inverted kneebar as Kohsaka is caught in the middle of the canvas. Kohsaka tries to work his way out of this, even with Volk Han’s attempt at a leg-lock and neck-crank combination hold. Kohsaka and Volk Han scramble on the canvas more, leading to a cross-armbreaker attempt from Kohsaka, which sends Volk Han to the ropes and gives Kohsaka his first point of the match. Kohsaka and Volk Han stand back up, and Kohsaka promptly hits Volk Han with a gut punch to the stomach. Volk Han keels over and the referee starts a 10 count, but Volk Han finds his footing before the 8 count. Kohsaka continues to apply the pressure though, and delivers a series of sharp knee strikes to Volk Han’s abdomen. Volk Han is knocked back down for another 10 count! Volk Han beats the count again but now faces a 5-2 deficit against Kohsaka. Volk Han, working from behind now, loses a bit of steam as Kohsaka continues to rack up the points with a cross-armbreaker attempt near the ropes, and Han is again forced to expend a point by using the ropes. It is now 6-2 Kohsaka 10:00 mark.

Volk Han, of course, is a magician and finds a way. As Kohsaka attempts to take him down for a reverse-scarf hold, Volk Han turns his body and gets his patented gyaku-ude-garami (entangled armlock) for the submission victory! Kohsaka looks on in frustration as Volk Han celebrates. Han defeats Kohsaka via submission (entangled armlock), 10:27

Frank Shamrock vs Nikolai Zouev

In another grappling masterclass, Zouev and Shamrock put on a clinic from the start. Zouev is a perfect foil for Shamrock, and both take joy in finesse. Zouev aims for Shamrock’s legs for the first few minutes, choosing to use leglock entries and takedowns whenever the opportunity arises. Shamrock remains patient and avoids most trouble by using his awareness to avoid any sudden submissions. Shamrock, recognizing that striking is probably Zouev’s main weakness, chooses to engage on that front after an extended scramble on the canvas. Zouev has trouble blocking Shamrock’s sharp palm strikes and low kicks and mainly plays defense here. By the halfway point, neither competitor has opted to use the ropes or score a knockdown in another tense stalemate. Shamrock steadily builds a 2-0 lead after Zouev begins to tire out, and scores a cross-armbreaker attempt near the ropes which Zouev promptly chooses to reach for. Zouev scores a point on Shamrock after catching him off-guard with a kani-basami (flying leg takedown), which he turns into a heel hook. With a 2-1 lead, Shamrock begins to apply the pressure on Zouev. Zouev’s defense is pretty good and gives Shamrock some trouble on the canvas again as he continues to look for leglock attempts, but Shamrock works his way for a guillotine choke and gets the submission victory over his RINGS Russia opponent. Shamrock defeats Zouev via submission (guillotine choke), 14:21

Akira Maeda vs Ricardo Morais

Maeda comes out to a hero’s welcome to “Captured” by Camel as the boisterous crowd makes it known they are fully behind him for this challenge. Morais comes out next, and the muscular Brazilian Vale Tudo fighter seems focused on dispatching his opponent. After easily defeating Yoshihisa Yamamoto in August, Ricardo Morais comes in as a monster opponent for Akira Maeda. Morais is an imposing 6’8 figure, even for Akira Maeda. Maeda, who has both knees bandaged up, leaves a bit wanting in comparison to the fitness levels of Morais. In any case, Maeda immediately brings it to Morais with a series of low kicks. Morais, without gloves this time, fires back with punches aimed at Maeda’s abdomen. Maeda seems flustered as Morais pressures him. Maeda seems to be on the back foot for the first part of the match as Morais manages to get him down to the canvas, and Morais uses his frame to keep Maeda working from underneath as Maeda is unable to get much going. Morais is happy to tire Maeda out by keeping him moving and doesn’t spend much energy to go for any submissions except for a collar choke. Maeda has to go to the ropes as the pressure Morais puts on his neck isn’t particularly dangerous, but it is very annoying.

It doesn’t take long for Morais to come back at Maeda again, putting more pressure on him with a combo of low punches and palm strikes to the face. One of them catches Maeda dead on and Maeda stumbles back a bit, clearly stunned. Morais gets a clinch on his opponent and delivers a few Muay Thai knee strikes for good measure. Maeda stumbles down to the canvas and Morais gets his first knockdown to make the match 3-0 at around the 8:00 mark. The crowd rallies behind Maeda and chants his name as he beats the 10 count by the count of 7. Maeda is beginning to look like he is gassed and tentatively offers some low kicks to test Morais’ reach. It doesn’t look good for Maeda, and Morais lowers his guard in a moment of confidence. Maeda suddenly catches Morais right in the head with a superbly timed high kick! Morais falls to the canvas in a heap and is out cold! Ryogaku Wada doesn’t even bother to start a 10 count and immediately calls for the bell. The crowd erupts in joy as Maeda celebrates his stunning victory with a vicious high kick. “MA-E-DA! MA-E-DA! MA-E-DA!” fills the arena as some of Maeda’s RINGS Japan stablemates come into the ring to celebrate with him. Adilson Lima, Morais’ cornerman, comes into the ring as the medical team checks on Morais, who doesn’t know where he is. Lima seems a bit livid and shoves his way to confront Maeda, and the two have a staredown before the RINGS Japan and RINGS Brazil guys can separate them. Maeda takes in his victory a bit more as Lima helps Morais to the back. Maeda defeats Morais via KO, 9:36

Maeda makes his way back behind the curtains as the commentators go over the match just unfolded and highlight Morais' overconfidence leading to the knockout. The commentators also discuss Lima confronting Maeda and the scuffle that unfolded after the match. They also discuss the other results from the evening and confirm the semi-finals that will take place next month with Yoshihisa Yamamoto going against Kiyoshi Tamura, and Volk Han meeting Frank Shamrock. They discuss Yamamoto recovering from his brutal loss against Morais, which Maeda just "avenged" and Volk Han meeting one of the world's best shootfighters in a real test for the Russian SAMBO master. We catch Maeda backstage as he praises Morais for the challenge he presented, but says that he was too arrogant and he needed to show the strength of RINGS Japan after Morais defeated his apprentice. He says Adilson Lima challenged him to a match and he accepted. It will take place next month and RINGS Brazil thinks they can walk into RINGS and tell him what to do. Maeda says they are wrong. The commentators say goodbye and the WOWOW credits roll to Queen's "Made in Heaven."

 

[Autistic Dragon]

I love the gifs you put in, they always look sick.

At this point Han is my favorite to win the whole thing.

Maeda keeping himself busy.

[SirEdger]

Man, if Frank Shamrock doesn't win the whole thing, I'd be shocked. He looks on a roll

[Control21]

Fighting Network RINGS 1997 - A Year in Review

The semi-finals of the 1996 Mega Battle Tournament saw Volk Han defeat Frank Shamrock in a thrilling match, and Kiyoshi Tamura overcame Yoshihisa Yamamoto in a short but brutal bout that possibly turned into a shoot at the end, at least according to some of the rumors that have gone around. Volk Han and Kiyoshi Tamura faced off in a highly anticipated final that was widely praised as one of the best matches in RINGS to date. Despite Kiyoshi Tamura's confidence going into the match, Volk Han walked away as the victor and the 1996 Mega Battle Tournament champion.

This set the stage for RINGS' 1997 run, which saw a rapidly growing and increasingly successful company corner the shoot-style market (especially after the sudden collapse of BattlArts) in Japan and even start to make some waves compared to the big "two" (NJPW and AJPW). While RINGS did not draw as many as those two companies on average, they became the clear #3 promotion in Japan in terms of total attendance as of this month. RINGS continued its global outreach into different markets, expanding its roster and making its presence felt in areas where MMA and NHB have started to take off, particularly in Brazil and the United States. Akira Maeda has solidified his relationships in Brazil despite a rocky start, and two promising rookies have been recruited into the RINGS Brazil branch (Anderson Silva and Renato Sobral). In the USA, RINGS continues to build relationships through the likes of Frank Shamrock and Maurice Smith, who have brought in highly touted talents such as Dan Henderson and Josh Barnett. Some journalists in the US feel that RINGS could cause the UFC a few headaches if they choose to further expand the work-shoot spectrum by focusing on shootfighting in America. In Europe, the RINGS Holland brand has evolved into something that resembles NHB/MMA rather than pro wrestling. There have been rumors that Nobuhiko Takada, Maeda's long-time rival, is looking to start a new MMA promotion in Japan to promote an upcoming fight with Rickson Gracie (more on that later). While RINGS remains first and foremost a pro wrestling company, a rapidly evolving landscape could force it to further blur the lines between pro wrestling and shootfighting. 

1997 highlights and notes:

• Kiyoshi Tamura recovered from his loss to Volk Han with an extended unbeaten run, defeating the likes of Masayuki Naruse, Tsuyoshi Kohsaka, and Andrei Kopylov. Volk Han also went on an unbeaten run, overcoming Hans Nijman, Bitsadze Tariel, and Yoshihisa Yamamoto. Volk Han did lose to Semmy Schilt in August, which set the stage for a rematch with Tamura. The two would meet in September, where Kiyoshi Tamura finally claimed a win over RINGS' top gaijin. It was another highly acclaimed match and a potential contender for Tokyo Sports' Best Bout award. 
• Akira Maeda's injuries and general health appear to be catching up to him, but he did claim a win back over Yoshihiro Takayama in March, and he overcame Adilson Lima at the January show as well. Maeda made a lot of waves in Japan by challenging Rickson Gracie to a shoot, and things were trending in the right direction before Rickson Gracie pulled out of a tentative agreement in April. Gracie claimed that he was misled by some of his compatriots in RINGS and that he only wanted to do a real fight. This led to some controversy back in Brazil as well, where a riff became apparent between some who see value in pro wrestling, and Gracie's camp, who have always viewed pro wrestling below them. Rickson Gracie later announced an agreement with Nobuhiko Takada to participate in a shootfight at the upcoming PRIDE debut show in November. Maeda said that Takada did "dirty" things to get Rickson Gracie's signature and that the relationship between the two has been irreparably broken. The PRIDE vs RINGS dynamic will be worth keeping an eye on in the coming months.
• Against the backdrop of all that, the RINGS Brazil vs RINGS Japan feud continued to boil throughout the year. Wanderlei Silva made his proper RINGS debut in March, where he defeated Alexander Otsuka. Maeda would lose to Lima in a rematch in June, where another brawl broke out after Lima refused to let go of a hold on Maeda's bad knee (this was worked). The two sides traded wins during the summer, with a potential RINGS Brazil vs RINGS Japan card in the works for sometime next year. 
• Mitsuya Nagai left the company in May, citing differences with Maeda and unhappiness with his position on the card. The departure was a bit shocking for some, but also understandable due to the depth of talent now available to RINGS. Kazunari Murakami and Alexander Otsuka joined from BattlArts, and both have picked up a couple of decent wins to cement themselves in the company. 
• Tsuyoshi Kohsaka has emerged as a real contender in RINGS, despite losing to Kiyoshi Tamura earlier in the year. Sakuraba has also staked a solid claim to the top half of the card as well. The SHOOTO branch has been a consistent highlight in RINGS, with both Sato and Uno becoming fan favorites due to their highly frantic approach in the ring and incredible submission skills. There is talk of creating a lightweight title of sorts, but nothing has been confirmed as of now.  Unfortunately, Yoshihisa Yamamoto suffered an injury in August that will keep him out for several months. Yamamoto assured his fans that he will return after speculation grew over his future with the company. 
• Speaking of titles, the 1997 Mega Battle tournament will decide the first RINGS Openweight champion. The first round will take place on October 30th at Tokyo's NK Hall. The card was announced earlier this month.
• RINGS USA will be holding a show in Casper, Wyoming in early November. This will be RINGS' first USA-based show and most of the RINGS USA roster members have been training for this event, which explains their absence from the Mega Battle Tournament. The show is being billed as a shootfighting event, although a pro-wrestling match or two is also being advertised locally. RINGS plans on holding more regional events heading into next year, including events in Holland, Russia, and potentially Brazil.

1997 RINGS Mega Battle Tournament: First Round

Masayuki Naruse vs Christopher Haseman

Semmy Schilt vs Kiyoshi Tamura

Hans Nijman vs Wanderlei Silva

Mikhail Ilyukhin vs Rumina Sato

Tsuyoshi Kohsaka vs Grom Zaza

Dick Vrij vs Yoshihiro Takayama

Volk Han vs Andrei Kopylov 

Akira Maeda vs Kazushi Sakuraba

 

 

[Autistic Dragon]

So excited to have RINGS back!

[SirEdger]

Great to see you back, bud! We needed RINGS!

[Control21]

Fighting Network RINGS - "Mega Battle Tournament 1997: First Round"

October 30th, 1997

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo NK Hall

Attendance: 7,000

 

Results:

Masayuki Naruse def. Christopher Haseman via submission (keylock), 11:37

Kiyoshi Tamura def. Semmy Schilt via submission (rear-naked choke), 12:19

Wanderlei Silva def. Hans Nijman via KO, 8:03

Mikhail Ilyukhin def. Rumina Sato via submission (kneebar), 14:01

Tsuyoshi Kohsaka def. Grom Zaza via submission (cross-armbreaker), 15:14

Yoshihiro Takayama def. Dick Vrij via TKO, 10:29

Volk Han def. Andrei Kopylov via submission (heel hook), 16:07

Akira Maeda def. Kazushi Sakuraba via TKO, 13:53

 

Current bracket for the second round:

Akira Maeda vs Masahyuki Naruse

Kiyoshi Tamura vs Yoshihiro Takayama

Mikhail Ilyukhin vs Tsuyoshi Kohsaka

Volk Han vs Wanderlei Silva 

Notes from the Wrestling Observer:

• The first round of the 1997 Mega Battle Tournament saw a near-sellout at Tokyo NK Hall, and reports from the event indicate it was a good show overall, with most of the matches going as expected. Both Takayama vs Vrij and Han vs Kopylov were said to be the best matches on the card. Maeda vs Sakuraba was thought to be disappointing, with Maeda not standing out well against a much better wrestler like Sakuraba. Maeda also had a hard time keeping up with his opponent. The attendance figures were very good all things considered. Maeda will be facing Naruse in the next round.
• Wanderlei Silva might be primed for a deep run in the tournament to further promote RINGS Brazil as one of the more dangerous factions in RINGS. Silva's next opponent will be Volk Han, the reigning Mega Battle champion. If Silva beats Han, it would be a major victory for Silva and most people in Japan think it would make sense for Silva to get a win there with Han on the wrong side of 35. 
• Some are disappointed that Sakuraba lost to Maeda in the first round, and most thought Maeda should have put Sakuraba over. On the other hand, Maeda has been the clear top draw in RINGS since the beginning and a pre-mature retirement might not be in RINGS' best interest despite his age and fitness levels. Especially if you consider PRIDE.
• Speaking of PRIDE, Mark Coleman has been announced as one of the participants for their debut in November. It's notable because Coleman has been very close with some of the RINGS USA crew and his decision to go with PRIDE has reportedly left a sour taste with a few of them, especially Frank Shamrock. PRIDE has begun promoting their event and there is increasing excitement over the Takada vs Rickson match, although Takada certainly won't stand a chance against Rickson Gracie. 
• RINGS USA announced a few matches for their upcoming event in Casper, Wyoming. Frank Shamrock will be taking on Dan Henderson in what is being billed as a shoot. Bitsadze Tariel will also be making an appearance at the show and will be facing Josh Barnett in what will presumably be a pro wrestling match. A full card will be released soon.

 

 

[Autistic Dragon]

Cool idea using the Wrestling Observer to add some flavor to things.

[Control21]

Fighting Network RINGS - "RINGS USA: Showdown in Casper"

November 6th, 1997

Casper, Wyoming

Casper Events Center

Attendance: 1,963

 

Valentijn Overeem drew with Dave Menne, R3 of 3 (15:00)

Jeremy Horn def. Travis Fulton via split decision, R3 of 3 (15:00)

Maurice Smith def. Egan Inoue via TKO, R2 of 3 (9:41)

Carlos Newton def. Elvis Sinosic via submission (keylock), R2 of 3 (6:45)

Kevin Randleman drew with Randy Couture, R3 of 3 (15:00)

Mark Kerr def. Renato Sobral via split decision, R3 of 3 (15:00)

Josh Barnett def. Bitsadze Tariel via submission (double wristlock), 15:11

Frank Shamrock def. Dan Henderson via submission (rear-naked choke), R1 of 3 (4:22)

Notes from the Wrestling Observer: 

• RINGS held their first event in the USA on November 6th in Casper, WY. The show was pretty good and available on PPV in select markets. The buy rate wasn't spectacular, but that was to be expected with the limited promotion. The live gate was solid but below the UFC event held there in 1995. The announced attendance was 1,963, compared to 2,500 fans for the 1995 UFC event. Frank Shamrock was most likely the main factor, and he put on a tremendous performance against top prospect Dan Henderson, who was submitted by a rear-naked choke in the first round. After the fight, Frank Shamrock told the crowd that he had big plans for RINGS in the US and that future shows would be happening going into the new year. He praised Dan Henderson as a promising fighter and said that he would make an impact in Japan soon enough. 
• The show was mostly shootfights, with Josh Barnett vs Bitsadze Tariel as an exception, which was contested under traditional RINGS rules compared to the round format of three five-minute rounds. Josh Barnett won in a huge surprise but looked tremendous against a well-respected member of the RINGS roster. Tariel got some strikes in and knocked Barnett down several times, but Barnett came storming back and managed to get Tariel to the ground for a double wristlock. Josh Barnett has caught the attention of Akira Maeda and there are plans for him to appear regularly at more RINGS events in Japan going forward.
• RINGS will hold its next major Japan event on November 30th in Osaka, which will be the second round of the annual Mega Battle Tournament. 

 

[Autistic Dragon]

Looks like RINGS American debut is a moderate success.

[Blehschmidt]

You hate to see "The King of Rock 'n' Rumble" get submitted!

Shocked that Kerr didn't smash Babalu, as this time period was the height of him just demolishing everyone he got in the cage with,