Nagashima vs. Aoki Rules Set

Last Updated on Friday, 31 December 2010 06:13 Wednesday, 29 December 2010 17:49

Written by Fraser Coffeen

Dynamite!! is just two days away, and in true FEG style, we're still getting the final details figured out.  One important piece of info just released is the rules for the Shinya Aoki v. Yuichiro "Jienotsu" Nagashima fight.  All that was known so far is that they would be alternating rounds of K-1 and MMA, but now we have the specifics.

The bout will start with a 3 minute K-1 rules round.  Round 2 will be 5 minutes under Dream rules.  If there is no winner after those 2 rounds, the fight will automatically be ruled a draw and will not be scored by judges.  And then there's this - regular MMA style gloves will be worn for both rounds.

That last rule adds a new wrinkle to things.  We're not accustomed to seeing a K-1 fighter like Jienotsu striking with smaller MMA gloves, nor is he used to using them.  This should increase the chances of a KO, but it also increases the chances of a broken hand. 

I'm glad they are starting with the K-1 round.  As I said when this was announced, I think Nagashima's chances of surviving 5 minutes under MMA rules with Aoki are almost nonexistent.  The intrigue of this fight comes from the standing portion.  Common sense says Aoki should use his reach and defensive skills to try and survive those 3 minutes.  But I have a suspicion that Aoki's emotions could get the best of him, leading the Dream champion to actively engage Jienotsu on the feet.  If that happens, it should spell doom for Aoki, but those MMA fighters have a pesky way of surprising their K-1 opponents.  Either way, this should be interesting, and is one of my personal Dynamite highlights this year.

Also announced were the rules for Bob Sapp v. Shinichi Suzukawa, which will be DREAM MMA rules with no gloves, closed fist strikes are not allowed, and you are permitted to throw open palm hand strikes.  Sounds like a throwback to the old Pancrase days to me.

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