Kai Asakura has become one of Japan’s most electrifying exports to the world of mixed martial arts, known for his knockout power, relentless aggression, and a journey that’s as compelling outside the cage as it is inside. As a former Rizin Bantamweight Champion and now a top contender in the UFC flyweight division, Asakura’s story is one of grit, family, and a drive to be the best.
Kai Asakura’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Kai Asakura (朝倉 海) |
| Nickname | Crazy Wolf |
| Date of Birth | October 31, 1993 |
| Age | 31 years |
| Place of Birth | Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture, Japan |
| College | Aichi Prefectural Toyohashi Technical High School |
| Religion | N/A |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Height | 5’8″ (173 cm) |
| Weight Class | Flyweight (UFC), formerly Bantamweight (Rizin) |
| Turned Pro | 2012 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1 million – $3 million |
| Salary (Recent) | UFC 310: $500,000 base, up to $1.5 million with bonuses/PPV |
| Spouse | Not married |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| Children | N/A |
| Instagram Profile | @kai_asakura_ |
Early Career
Kai Asakura’s fighting journey began in Toyohashi, Japan, where he and his older brother, Mikuru, often found themselves in street fights. Their mother enrolled them in boxing to channel their energy. Kai trained in karate and sumo as a child, then started MMA in high school at the Zen Dokai Toyohashi Dojo, inspired by his brother. He competed in amateur events aimed at troubled youth before turning professional in 2012.
Professional Career
Asakura debuted professionally in 2012, quickly building a reputation for explosive knockouts and a fearless style. He fought in Japanese promotions like DEEP and Road FC, but his breakthrough came in Rizin Fighting Federation, where he became a two-time Bantamweight Champion. Notably, he knocked out Kyoji Horiguchi, a major figure in Japanese MMA, and also defeated top contenders like Juan Archuleta and Manel Kape.
Asakura’s highlight-reel finishes and aggressive approach made him a fan favorite. In 2024, he signed with the UFC and was immediately granted a title shot against flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 310, a rare feat for a debutant. Asakura’s adaptability, blending karate, Muay Thai, boxing, and jiu-jitsu, has cemented him as one of Asia’s most dynamic MMA athletes.
Kai Asakura’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Kai Asakura’s net worth is estimated between $1 million and $3 million. This includes his fight purses, bonuses, sponsorships, YouTube income, and merchandise sales.
Fight Purses
| Event | Opponent | Purse Details |
| UFC 310 | Alexandre Pantoja | $500,000 base, $100,000 win bonus, $32,000 sponsorship, PPV share (up to $1.5 million total with bonuses) |
| Rizin FF (various events) | Multiple | Not publicly disclosed; generally lower than UFC |
Endorsements
- Sportswear brands (specific names not publicly listed)
- Health supplement companies
- Merchandise and branded MMA gear
- Partnerships with Japanese brands
- Revenue from YouTube channel sponsorships
Career Records
| Opponent | Result | Method | Event | Date |
| Alexandre Pantoja | Loss | Submission (R2) | UFC 310 | Dec 7, 2024 |
| Juan Archuleta | Win | TKO (knee/punches) | Rizin 45 | Dec 31, 2023 |
| Yuki Motoya | Win | KO (knee) | Rizin 42 | May 6, 2023 |
| Hiromasa Ougikubo | Win/Loss | KO/Decision | Rizin 23/33 | 2020/2021 |
| Kyoji Horiguchi | Win/Loss | KO/KO | Rizin 18/26 | 2019/2020 |
| Manel Kape | Win/Loss | Decision/TKO | Rizin 10/20 | 2018/2019 |
| Ulka Sasaki | Win | TKO (jaw injury) | Rizin 19 | Oct 12, 2019 |
| Shooto Watanabe | Win | TKO (punches) | Rizin 28 | Jun 13, 2021 |
FAQs
1. Who is Kai Asakura?
Kai Asakura is a Japanese mixed martial artist currently competing in the Flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He is a former Rizin Bantamweight Champion and has been a professional fighter since 2012.
2. What is Kai Asakura’s professional MMA record?
Kai Asakura has a professional record of 21 wins and 5 losses, with 13 wins by knockout and 3 by submission.
3. What are Kai Asakura’s most notable achievements?
He was the Rizin Bantamweight Champion, winning the title with a first-round knockout. Asakura also reached the finals of the Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix in 2021, finishing as runner-up.
4. How did Kai Asakura get into martial arts?
Asakura began training in karate and sumo as a child. He and his brother, Mikuru Asakura, were involved in street fights, which led their mother to enroll them in boxing classes. His brother later introduced him to mixed martial arts.
5. What is Kai Asakura’s fighting style and strengths?
He is known for his aggressive striking, particularly his knockout power and effective bodywork. Asakura has a reputation for excellent counter knees to the body, strong takedown defense, and athleticism.
6. What is Kai Asakura’s height and reach?
He stands 5 feet 8 inches (172 cm) tall and has a reach of 69 inches.
7. How did Kai Asakura perform in his UFC debut?
Asakura made his UFC debut at UFC 310 in December 2024, where he lost to Alexandre Pantoja via submission in the second round.
8. Who are some of Kai Asakura’s most notable opponents?
He has fought and defeated fighters such as Kyoji Horiguchi, Juan Archuleta, and Yuki Motoya, and has faced top competitors like Manel Kape and Alexandre Pantoja.
9. How active is Kai Asakura as a fighter?
Over the past few years, Asakura has fought on average every 8 months, with his last five fights spanning just over three years.
10. Does Kai Asakura have any upcoming fights scheduled?
As of now, Kai Asakura does not have a fight scheduled. A potential future opponent mentioned is Manel Kape.