Fighting and Entertainment Group (FEG) has confirmed the last-minute addition of famed Japanese mixed martial artist Kazushi Sakuraba (24-12-1), as he jumps in on just a few days notice to battle boxing journeyman Ruben Williams (0-0) at the upcoming DREAM 11 event on Oct. 6 in Yokohama, Japan.
"The Gracie Killer" hasn't competed since being outpointed by Kiyoshi Tamura back on New year's Eve at K-1 Dynamite. It was his second straight loss, also falling to Melvin Manhoef via technical knockout at DREAM 4 in June 2008.
The 40-year-old professional wrestler turned MMA fighter become a pioneer in the sport during his tenure under the Pride FC banner. In his 27 appearances in the now defunct organization, he had made a name for himself as a charismatic warrior.
Known for his flamboyant ring entrances and unorthodox catch wrestling-derived fighting style, Sakuraba has fought more than his fair share of memorable bouts that have been etched in the annals of MMA history, earning his nickname with victories over members of the legendary Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu family, including Renzo, Royce, Royler and Ryan Gracie.
Despite his legendary status and ability to "put butts in the seat," Saks hasn't had a win since April 2008 (Andrews Nakahara). Nevertheless, he's always game for a televised scrap.
The debuting Williams holds a 29-8-1 boxing record and is perhaps best known for his 2005 IBF Super Middleweight fight against Jeff Lacy. Despite his early success, "Mr. Hollywood" is winless in his last seven attempts (0-6-1).
I don't think it will come as a surprise if the boxing bully tries to keep this one standing for as long as possible.
DREAM 11 features the semifinal rounds of Super Hulk Tournament and Featherweight Grand Prix, as well as a Lightweight title/rubber match between Joachim Hansen and Shinya Aoki.
For the complete DREAM 11 line up click here.
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