Shoot Boxing light-weight contender Yuhi Okouchi steps into the Korakuen Hall ring on October 24, 2026, aiming for a statement knockout against second-ranked Possible K to force his way into a championship opportunity.
The October 24 event, officially titled Shoot Boxing 2026 Act.5, features a pivotal 62.5-kilogram expert class match between sixth-ranked Okouchi of the RIKIX gym and Possible K of K’Growth. For Okouchi, a 27-year-old fighter with a six-year background in kickboxing, the matchup represents a clear runway toward the division’s belt currently held by Shota Tezuka.
“I want to put on a performance that makes everyone think, ‘Okouchi is definitely the next title challenger,'” Okouchi said ahead of the bout.
Transition From Judo to Kickboxing Shapes RIKIX Contender
Okouchi’s combat sports journey began long before he pulled on boxing gloves. Raised under his father’s instruction to become a strong boy, he spent his childhood and high school years immersed in judo, earning selections to the Kanagawa prefectural team through elementary, junior high, and high school. His judo repertoire evolved from bouncing techniques like uchi-mata and harai-goshi in his early years to drop-style shoulder throws and tomoe-nage after entering junior high.
By the time he finished high school, however, the competitive environment altered his trajectory. Facing elite prefectural rivals, Okouchi stepped away from the tatami. It was not until his university years during pandemic-induced lockdowns that combat sports caught his eye again. Drawn in by the visual appeal of professional fighters, he walked into a gym to try kickboxing purely as a hobby.
“I started with the feeling that if I did martial arts, maybe I would become a bit more popular with girls,” Okouchi recalled with a laugh, noting that the four-fight winning streak he carries into the bout has not shifted his social standing.
That casual interest turned professional under the guidance of Hideya Tanaka, chairman of RIKIX Yokohama. After initially hesitating to enter the demanding world of professional fighting, Okouchi attended a live No Kick No Life event, a live spectator experience that ignited his competitive drive and sealed his transition to the professional ranks.
Adaptation to Shoot Boxing Rules and Judo Throws
Entering the Shoot Boxing organization in February 2025, Okouchi immediately integrated his 13 years of judo experience into the stand-up striking format, quickly climbing into the rankings. Because Shoot Boxing allows throws under specific rules while requiring gloves and prohibiting traditional gis, Okouchi initially questioned how effectively his grappling background would translate.
Those doubts vanished once he tested the ruleset inside the ring. While he frequently donned long spats during his first three promotional appearances—aside from an accidental switch to standard kickpants in August after his spats tore prior to costume photography—he returns to long spats for the clash.
“I have a lot of confidence in my throw techniques, and I know how to counter them, so I will be fine,” Okouchi said regarding the grappling exchanges.
Tactical Breakdown Against Possible K
The 62.5kg encounter pits Okouchi’s grappling pedigree against the seasoned stamina and balanced striking of Possible K. The second-ranked contender is known for forward pressure and a diverse arsenal of punches and kicks, though Okouchi intends to exploit defensive openings while utilizing his scoring throws.
Rather than relying purely on technical precision, Okouchi characterizes his fighting style around relentless forward pressure. He aims to secure a definitive stoppage that leaves no doubt about who deserves the next shot at the championship held by Tezuka.
“The champion has incredible explosiveness and is the most powerful, dangerous fighter right now,” Okouchi said. “I am always prepared, so if they line it up, I want to take the fight immediately. I am aiming to become RIKIX’s first Shoot Boxing champion.”
Opening bell for the expert class 62.5kg match is scheduled inside Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall.
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