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Hiroki Akimoto
Hiroki Akimoto
Hiroki Akimoto
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Hiroki Akimoto (秋元 皓貴, Akimoto Hiroki; born August 31, 1992) is a Japanese kickboxer. He competes in ONE Championship's bantamweight and flyweight division, where he is the former ONE Kickboxing Bantamweight World Champion.[3][4]

Key Information

As of June 2022, he is ranked as the second-best featherweight kickboxer in the world by Combat Press. He's been ranked in the top ten since December 2021.[5][6]

Background

[edit]

Japanese-born Akimoto began his martial arts journey at the age of eight. He took up full contact karate[7] and became a top talent over his years of training. Both of his parents were instructors in the Shichishu-Kai, but he was never forced to participate. It was not until he was involved in a fight at school did he decide to take up martial arts.[8]

As his skills grew, he turned to competition. He did not stick with karate, and also competed in Muay Thai and kickboxing bouts. To get the most of his talents, Akimoto moved from Japan to Singapore to train at Evolve MMA and pursue a world title in ONE Championship.[9]

Kickboxing career

[edit]

Akimoto got off to an incredible start to his professional career. He racked up 19 straight kickboxing victories that would lead him to be signed by ONE Championship.

ONE Championship

[edit]

Early promotional career

[edit]

Akimoto made his organizational debut with ONE Championship on January 25, 2019 at ONE Championship: Hero's Ascent. It was his first kickboxing bout in nearly six years.[10] Akimoto won the fight by unanimous decision.[11]

The now 20–0 striker returned to competition on March 31, 2019 at ONE Championship: A New Era against Joseph Lasiri.[12] Akimoto lost the bout by majority decision, suffering the first loss of his professional career.[13]

Akimoto faced Kenny Tse at ONE Championship: Masters Of Destiny on July 12, 2019. He won the fight by unanimous decision, successfully rebounding from his loss to Lasiri.[14]

Move to Bantamweight

[edit]

Akimoto faced Zhang Chenglong at ONE Championship: Reign of Dynasties 2 on October 17, 2020.[15] He won the fight by split decision.[16] Due to the close decision, the pair were immediately booked for a rematch at ONE Championship: Fists Of Fury on February 26, 2021.[17] Akimoto was more convincing in the rematch, as he beat Zhang by unanimous decision.[18]

Akimoto faced former Wu Lin Feng kickboxing champion Qiu Jianliang at ONE: Winter Warriors on December 3, 2021.[19] He won the bout via unanimous decision.[20]

Bantamweight kickboxing champion

[edit]

Akimoto (then the #2 ONE Kickboxing Bantamweight contender) challenged the reigning ONE Bantamweight kickboxing champion Capitan Petchyindee Academy at ONE: X on March 25, 2022.[21] He won the fight by unanimous decision, after controlling the final four rounds of the bout. Capitan was twice warned for illegal clinching and was deducted a point for it in the fourth round.[22][23] Akimoto was given the $50,000 Performance of the Night award as well,[24] and was named the March 2022 "Fighter of the Month" by eFight.[25]

Akimoto made his first ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World title defense against #4 ranked contender Petchtanong Petchfergus at ONE 163 on November 18, 2022.[26] He lost the fight by split decision (and also his second loss on his kickboxing career).[27]

Post title regin

[edit]

After a 1-year and 5-month hiatus, Akimoto faced Wei Rui on May 4, 2024, at ONE Fight Night 22.[28] He lost the fight by unanimous decision.[29]

Akimoto faced Ilias Ennahachi on September 27, 2024, at ONE Friday Fights 81. He lost the fight via unanimous decision.[30]

Akimoto faced John Lineker on March 23, 2025, at ONE 172.[31] He won the fight via split decision.[32]

Titles and accomplishments

[edit]

Kickboxing

[edit]

Amateur

  • Martial Arts Japan Kickboxing Federation
    • 2008 MAJKF All Japan Tournament Bantamweight Winner & event MVP[33]
  • K-1
    • 2010 K-1 Koshien Tournament Runner-up

Professional

Awards

Karate

[edit]
  • Japan Karate Judge Organization
    • 2005 JKJO Karate-Do MAC Japan Cup Middle School -40kg runner-up[38]
    • 2006 JKJO Karate-Do MAC Japan Cup Middle School -50kg runner-up[39]
    • 2007 JKJO Karate-Do MAC Japan Cup Middle School -40kg runner-up[40]
    • 2007 JKJO All Japan Junior Championship Middle School -55kg runner-up[41]
  • Japanese Fullcontact Karate Organization
    • 2015 JFKO All Japan Full Contact Championship Lightweight Runner-up[42]
    • 2016 JFKO All Japan Full Contact Championship Lightweight 3rd Place[43]
    • 2017 JFKO All Japan Full Contact Championship Lightweight Champion[44]
  • Kyokushin World Federation
    • 2016 KWF Russian Open Lightweight 1st Place
    • 2017 KWF Karate Grand Prix Lightweight Champion[45]
    • 2017 KWF Karate European Championship 70 kg 3rd Place[46]
    • 2018 KWF Karate Grand Prix Lightweight Runner-up[47]

Professional Kyokushin

  • World Fighting Kyokushin Organization
    • 2018 WFKO World Pro Kyokushin -65kg Champion[48]

Fight record

[edit]
Kickboxing record
28 Wins (10 (T)KO's), 4 Losses, 0 Draw, 0 No Contest
Date Result Opponent Event Location Method Round Time
2025-11-16 Win China Wei Rui ONE 173 Tokyo, Japan Decision (Unanimous) 3 3:00
2025-03-23 Win Brazil John Lineker ONE 172 Saitama, Japan Decision (Split) 3 3:00
2024-09-27 Loss Morocco Ilias Ennahachi ONE Friday Fights 81 Bangkok, Thailand Decision (Unanimous) 3 3:00
2024-05-03 Loss China Wei Rui ONE Fight Night 22 Bangkok, Thailand Decision (Unanimous) 3 3:00
2022-11-19 Loss Thailand Petchtanong Petchfergus ONE 163 Kallang, Singapore Decision (Split) 5 3:00
Lost the ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Championship.
2022-03-26 Win Thailand Capitan Petchyindee Academy ONE: X Kallang, Singapore Decision (Unanimous) 5 3:00
Wins the ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Championship.
2021-12-03 Win China Qiu Jianliang ONE: Winter Warriors Kallang, Singapore Decision (Unanimous) 3 3:00
2021-02-26 Win China Zhang Chenglong ONE Championship: Fists Of Fury Kallang, Singapore Decision (Unanimous) 3 3:00
2020-10-17 Win China Zhang Chenglong ONE Championship: Reign of Dynasties 2 Kallang, Singapore Decision (Split) 3 3:00
2019-07-12 Win Australia Kenny Tse ONE Championship: Masters Of Destiny Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Decision (Unanimous) 3 3:00
2019-03-31 Loss Italy Joseph Lasiri ONE Championship: A New Era Tokyo, Japan Decision (Majority) 3 3:00
2019-01-25 Win Australia Josh Tonna ONE Championship: Hero's Ascent Pasay, Philippines Decision (Unanimous) 3 3:00
2013-04-14 Win Thailand Surachai Sisuriyanyothin MAJKF DRAGON ROAD ONE AND ONLY TAKE 1 Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan Decision (Unanimous) 5 3:00
2012-12-02 Win Japan Shunta BigBang 11 Tokyo, Japan Decision (Unanimous) 5 3:00
2012-10-07 Win Japan Yosuke Morii MAJKF BREAK-30 ～UNIFICATION～ Tokyo, Japan Decision (Unanimous) 5 3:00
Wins WBC Muay Thai Japan Featherweight title.
2012-07-15 Win Japan Daiki Fujisawa MAJKF KICK GUTS 2012 Tokyo, Japan TKO (Doctor Stoppage/Left Elbow) 1 1:28
Wins MA Japan Kick Featherweight title.
2012-05-06 Win Japan Kenryu MAJKF BREAK-25 ～CANNONBALL～ Tokyo, Japan KO (Right Front Kick) 1 2:52
2012-02-25 Win Japan Fumiya Sasaki BigBang 8 Tokyo, Japan KO (Left High Kick) 1 2:40
2011-08-21 Win Japan Atsushi Masukura BigBang 6 Tokyo, Japan KO (High Knee) 3 0:18
2011-07-24 Win Thailand Pinsiam Sor.Amnuaysirichoke MAJKF J-1 time ～signal of start～ Aichi Prefecture, Japan KO (Left hook to the body) 2 0:54
2011-05-15 Win Japan Shota BigBang 5 Tokyo, Japan KO (Left Knee) 1 1:46
2011-02-05 Win Japan TURBO BigBang 4 Tokyo, Japan KO (Flying Knee) 2 1:05
2010-09-23 Win Japan Seidou Yamaguchi BigBang 3 Tokyo, Japan Decision (Unanimous) 3 3:00
2010-05-04 Win Japan Kyoji Bancho MAJKF Explosion-1 Japan Decision (Unanimous) 3 3:00
2010-04-04 Win Japan Toshiya Sudou MAJKF Boukohyouga Sono Ichi Chiba, Japan TKO (Corner Stoppage) 2 1:17
2010-03-14 Win Japan Tadashi Matsumoto NAGOYA KICK ～CENTRAL RHYTHM～ Chiba, Japan Decision (Unanimous) 3 3:00
2010-01-31 Win Japan Shoya Suzuki NAGOYA KICK ～KICK Hopping！～ Nagoya, Japan Decision (Unanimous) 3 3:00
2009-03-08 Win Japan Masayuki Ishibashi NAGOYA KICK 〜Boogie Fight 07 Black Sunday〜 Nagoya, Japan Decision (Majority) 3 3:00
2008-12-23 Win Japan Norifumi Yamamura NAGOYA KICK ～2008 FINAL Nagoya vs Muay Thai Drum Roll Please!!～ Nagoya, Japan Decision (Unanimous) 3 3:00
2008-10-19 Win Japan Shin Takashiro MAJKF BREAK THROUGH-7 ～CHAMPION CARNIVAL～ Tokyo, Japan KO (Knee) 3 0:43
2008-08-29 Win Japan Mutsuki Ebata K-1 Koshien -KING OF UNDER 18- Tokyo, Japan Decision (Unanimous) 3 3:00
2008-08 Win Thailand Yokdam Thailand KO 1
Legend:   Win   Loss   Draw/No contest   Notes
Amateur Kickboxing Record
Date Result Opponent Event Location Method Round Time
2010-11-20 Loss Japan Shoei Hareyama K-1 Koshien -KING OF UNDER 18- FINAL, Final Tokyo, Japan KO (Low Kick) 3 0:23
For the 2010 K-1 Koshien Title.
2010-11-20 Win Japan Keigo Ishida K-1 Koshien -KING OF UNDER 18- FINAL, Semi Final Tokyo, Japan KO (Left middle kick) 4
2010-11-20 Win Japan Sho Ogawa K-1 Koshien -KING OF UNDER 18- FINAL, Quarter Final Tokyo, Japan Ext.R Decision (Unanimous) 4
2010-11-20 Win Japan Koji Kashimura K-1 Koshien -KING OF UNDER 18- FINAL, Second Round Tokyo, Japan KO 1
2010-11-20 Win Japan Yuki Kurihara K-1 Koshien -KING OF UNDER 18- FINAL, First Round Tokyo, Japan TKO 1
2010-09-04 Win Japan Tensho Ato K-1 Koshien 2010 West Japan Selection Osaka, Japan KO (Punches) 3 0:30
2009-10-26 Loss Japan Shota Shimada K-1 World MAX 2009 World Championship Tournament Final K-1 Koshien Tournament Quarter Final Tokyo, Japan Decision 3 2:00
2009-08-10 Win Japan Hiroto Yamaguchi K-1 Koshien 2009 KING OF UNDER 18 -FINAL16- Tokyo, Japan Decision 3 2:00
2009-07-04 Win Japan Sho Ogawa K-1 Koshien 2009 Chubu Region Selection Tournament, Final Japan Ext.R Decision 2 2:00
2009-07-04 Win Japan Hiroto Iwasaki K-1 Koshien 2009 Chubu Region Selection Tournament, Semi Finals Japan Decision 1 2:00
2009-07-04 Win Japan Hideaki Ishida K-1 Koshien 2009 Chubu Region Selection Tournament, Quarter Finals Japan Decision 1 2:00
2009-07-04 Win Japan Shunsuke Okuno K-1 Koshien 2009 Chubu Region Selection Tournament, First Round Japan KO (Knee to the Body) 1
2008-07-27 Win Japan Ryota Terada 2008 MAJKF Amateur All Japan Tournament, Final Fuefuki, Japan
Wins the 2008 MAJKF Amateur All Japan Tournament Bantamweight Title.
2008-04-29 Win Japan Yuki Miwa MAJKF "BREAK THROUGH-3" Tokyo, Japan Decision (Unanimous) 2 2:00
2007-10-28 Win Japan Yuji Morihira 6th BRIDGE one match challenge Tokyo, Japan Decision 2 3:00
Legend:   Win   Loss   Draw/No contest   Notes

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Hiroki Akimoto

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Hiroki Akimoto (born August 31, 1992) is a Japanese professional who competes in the division of , where he is a former ONE World Champion. Akimoto's career began at age eight when he started training in Kyokushin Karate, eventually building an undefeated 19-0 professional record in and winning the WBC Muay Thai Championship. In 2018, he relocated to to join , honing his skills ahead of his debut in March 2019. Known for his karate-based striking and resilience, Akimoto stands at 5 feet 6 inches (170 cm) tall and fights at a weight limit of 145.1 pounds (65.8 kg). Akimoto captured the ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Title in December 2021 by defeating Capitan Petchyindee Academy via unanimous decision at ONE: X, marking his first world championship in the promotion. He made one successful defense before losing the belt to Petchtanong Petchfergus by split decision in the main event of ONE 163 on November 19, 2022. In the years following his title loss, Akimoto has remained a top contender in ONE Championship's stacked bantamweight kickboxing division, compiling an 8-4 record in the organization as of November 2025. Notable bouts include unanimous decision losses to in May 2024 at ONE Fight Night 22 and to in September 2024 at ONE Friday Fights 81, followed by a hard-fought split decision victory over MMA veteran in his kickboxing debut at ONE 172 on March 23, 2025, and a unanimous decision win over in their rematch at ONE 173 on November 16, 2025.

Early Life and Background

Childhood and Introduction to Martial Arts

Hiroki Akimoto was born on August 31, 1992, in , . From a very young age, Akimoto harbored a dream of becoming a professional , a aspiration that would shape his lifelong dedication to the sport. He took his first steps into at the age of eight, beginning training in full-contact . This initial entry was spurred by a personal motivation: after being bullied and physically overpowered by a classmate at school, Akimoto sought as a means to build strength and defend himself. His training took place at a local near his home, where the rigorous environment emphasized resilience, hard work, and traditional values. Akimoto's early sessions focused on core fundamentals, including the practice of katas—prearranged forms that develop precision, balance, and mental focus—and introductory to hone practical combat skills. These elements not only strengthened his physical abilities but also instilled a deep sense of discipline and etiquette, transforming his initial defensive drive into a genuine passion for the art. Shortly after starting, his family became involved, with his father joining the a year later at age nine, followed by his mother and sister two years after that, making a shared family interest that reinforced Akimoto's commitment. He trained under the Shichishukai karate organization, a knockdown-style offshoot of . These early experiences, including a competitive rivalry that began in his youth, were pivotal in cultivating his foundational discipline and technical proficiency, laying the groundwork for his future achievements in the sport.

Training and Move to Singapore

During his mid-teens, Hiroki Akimoto intensified his training at the Shichishukai dojo in Japan, a Kyokushin karate affiliate emphasizing full-contact sparring and rigorous physical conditioning to build striking power and endurance. From ages 13 to 18, he honed his karate-based techniques through daily sessions that included bare-knuckle knockdown drills and high-intensity conditioning, laying the foundation for his transition from amateur karate successes to professional kickboxing. At age 20 in 2013, Akimoto retired from with an undefeated 19-0 professional record, shifting focus to coaching at his family's and competing sporadically in tournaments during a five-year hiatus. Motivated by an invitation to try out for and the prospect of competing on an international stage, he returned to professional in 2018, marking a pivotal shift toward pursuing global opportunities. That same year, Akimoto relocated to Singapore to join Evolve MMA full-time, adapting his karate-rooted style to international kickboxing by incorporating Muay Thai elements for enhanced versatility. Under the guidance of Evolve MMA coaches, including Siyar Bahadurzada, he focused on improving his striking power through heavier bag work and clinch training, while bolstering grappling defense to counter diverse opponents from orthodox and southpaw stances. This training evolution refined his approach into a more adaptive, Muay Thai-influenced system, preparing him for ONE Championship's multifaceted competition landscape.

Amateur and Karate Career

Junior Achievements in Karate

Hiroki Akimoto's early competitive journey in karate featured notable successes in national full-contact tournaments under the Japan Full-Contact Karate Organization (JFKO). In 2015, he achieved second place in the -65 kg division at the 2nd All Japan Fullcontact Championship held in . The next year, Akimoto earned bronze in the same weight class at the 3rd All Japan Fullcontact Championship, demonstrating steady improvement in his technical precision and endurance. By 2017, he reached the pinnacle of these events, capturing the gold medal in the -65 kg category at the 4th All Japan Fullcontact Championship, also in , where his aggressive style and powerful strikes secured victory over strong domestic competitors. On the international stage, Akimoto's talents shone through his participation in World Full Contact Karate Organization (WFKO) events. In 2014, he won the WFKO Karate World Championship, a significant milestone that affirmed his status as a rising global talent in karate. Building on this, Akimoto claimed the WFKO World Pro title in the 65 kg division in 2018, showcasing his ability to adapt and dominate in professional full-contact rules against elite international opposition. These victories highlighted his rigorous training regimen and tactical acumen, honed since beginning karate at age 8. A key moment bridging his karate roots to broader combat sports came in 2010, signaling an early evolution in his striking arsenal. The precise, high-impact kicks developed during these junior and amateur years formed the core of Akimoto's distinctive fighting style, contributing to his later effectiveness in bouts by enabling devastating counters and distance management.

Transition to Amateur Kickboxing

Following his successes in , Hiroki Akimoto transitioned to in his mid-teens, making his professional debut in 2007 while continuing amateur competitions. This shift allowed him to compete under K-1 rulesets, which emphasized full-contact exchanges with gloves and limited clinching compared to pure . By 2010, Akimoto entered the K-1 Koshien tournament, a prominent amateur event for under-18 fighters in , where he advanced to the final with knockouts in the round of 16 and semifinals, a TKO in the opening round, and a in the quarterfinals before losing to Shoei Hareyama by TKO (referee stoppage) in the second round. Post-2010, Akimoto continued to compete successfully in local and regional kickboxing events across Japan. These bouts, often held in promotions adhering to K-1 formats, honed his competitive edge and led to invitations for higher-profile amateur showcases. His amateur tenure focused on consistent performances through superior technique, paving the way for his professional career. In evolving his style during this phase, Akimoto integrated precise karate kicks—characterized by high, snapping roundhouses and low sweeps—with fluid punch combinations to close distances effectively. Early exposure to Muay Thai elements, including basic clinch work for knee strikes and control, added versatility to his karate base, enabling him to handle varied opponents in kickboxing's dynamic environments. This hybrid approach emphasized speed and power, setting the stage for his professional success without relying solely on traditional karate stances.

Professional Kickboxing Career

Early Professional Fights in Japan

Hiroki Akimoto launched his professional career in 2007 at the age of 15, drawing on his undefeated amateur achievements to make an immediate impact in 's competitive domestic scene. His early bouts showcased a blend of karate precision and striking power, allowing him to adapt swiftly from amateur rules to the professional environment. Competing primarily in promotions like K-1's youth-focused Koshien series, Krush, and RISE, Akimoto focused on the flyweight and divisions, where he rapidly built momentum with a series of dominant performances. By 2009, he had reached the quarterfinals of the K-1 Koshien tournament, demonstrating his potential against other top young talents in . A standout win came on August 29, 2008, when he defeated Mutsuki Ebata by unanimous decision at K-1 Koshien - KING OF UNDER 18-, a victory that propelled him further in the under-18 bracket and earned early acclaim for his technical striking. Akimoto's knockout prowess became evident as he accumulated 8 knockouts in his initial professional run, often finishing opponents with sharp -style kicks and punches that overwhelmed domestic rivals. This power, combined with his defensive footwork, helped him secure key accolades, including the MA Kickboxing title and the WBC Muay Thai title by age 21. These triumphs against established Japanese fighters underscored his reputation as a rising star capable of blending roots with aggression. Over six years, Akimoto extended his record to an undefeated 19-0, a streak that highlighted his consistency and adaptability in high-stakes Japanese events before he stepped away from the sport in 2013 at age 20 to pursue other endeavors. This flawless run in promotions like Krush and RISE not only cemented his knockout-oriented style but also positioned him as one of Japan's most promising prospects, setting the stage for his international return.

ONE Championship Debut and Initial Success

Hiroki Akimoto entered with high expectations, leveraging his undefeated 19-0 professional record from , where he had established himself as a dominant force in domestic promotions. His organizational debut occurred on January 25, 2019, at ONE: Hero's Ascent in , , against Australian kickboxer Josh Tonna in a flyweight bout. This marked Akimoto's return to the sport after a nearly six-year hiatus. Akimoto secured a victory over Tonna, showcasing his precise Kyokushin karate striking in a competitive three-round affair that highlighted his technical prowess and footwork. Akimoto followed up with his second ONE appearance on July 12, 2019, at ONE: Masters of Destiny in , , facing Kenny Tse in another flyweight matchup. The Japanese striker again prevailed by unanimous decision, using sharp kicks and counters to outpoint the Australian fighter over three rounds and improve to 2-0 in the promotion. This brief stint in the flyweight division allowed Akimoto to test his skills against international opposition, but he soon recognized the need for a weight class adjustment to better suit his frame. Transitioning to bantamweight for enhanced physical matchup, Akimoto made his divisional debut on October 16, 2020, at ONE: Reign of Dynasties II in Singapore against Chinese contender Zhang Chenglong. In a closely contested main event, Akimoto edged out a split decision win, relying on his karate fundamentals to navigate Zhang's aggressive Muay Thai pressure. He extended his ONE streak to 3-0 with a unanimous decision rematch victory over Zhang on February 26, 2021, at ONE: Fists of Fury III, further solidifying his position as a top contender. Akimoto's initial 4-0 run in ONE Championship drew significant fan interest for his fluid, karate-influenced striking style, which emphasized speed and precision over power, positioning him as an emerging star in the bantamweight landscape.

Bantamweight Title Win and Reign

Hiroki Akimoto claimed the on March 26, 2022, at in , dethroning defending champion via after a grueling five-round battle. The Japanese striker, known for his explosive roots, overwhelmed Capitan with a barrage of low kicks, punches, and knee strikes, outlanding his opponent in key exchanges while absorbing heavy counters. Judges scored the fight 49-46, 48-47, and 49-46 in Akimoto's favor, capping a card highlighted by his relentless pressure and resilience in the later rounds. Akimoto's triumph made him the first Japanese athlete to capture the ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing title, a milestone that resonated deeply in his home country and elevated the visibility of there. Japanese media outlets praised his disciplined approach and striking precision, drawing parallels to traditional heritage while noting his adaptation to the international stage. The victory, often cited as one of 2022's top fights, underscored Akimoto's transition from flyweight contender to elite force. During his reign from March 26, 2022, to November 19, 2022, Akimoto focused on refining his game, particularly enhancing his clinch work to counter specialists in the division. As champion, he symbolized a new era for Japanese representation in ONE's ranks, inspiring a wave of domestic interest and training programs modeled after his success.

Title Loss and Subsequent Bouts

Akimoto's tenure as ONE World Champion concluded on November 19, 2022, at ONE 163 in , where he dropped a to in a highly competitive five-round title defense. The bout was marked by intense exchanges, with Petchtanong landing damaging body kicks that visibly affected Akimoto, though the Japanese fighter countered with sharp combinations and leg kicks throughout. The outcome sparked significant controversy, as Petchtanong expressed surprise at the split decision victory—one judge scored the fight 48-47 for Akimoto—prompting widespread fan criticism of the judging and calls for a rematch. This marked Akimoto's first defeat in , adjusting his professional record to 24-1 while ending his undefeated streak in the promotion. Following the title loss, Akimoto opted for a period of inactivity in 2023, using the time to intensify his training regimen and refine his defensive techniques against low and body strikes, drawing lessons from the damaging kicks that contributed to his defeat. Despite the setback, he retained a top-5 position in global rankings throughout the year, solidifying his status as a elite contender.

Recent Fights and 2025 Developments

In 2024, Akimoto faced significant challenges in his bid to reclaim the ONE World Title, starting with a closely contested loss to top contender on May 4 at ONE Fight Night 22 in , . The bout showcased Akimoto's technical prowess and pressure fighting, but Rui's volume striking and clinch work edged him out over three rounds, marking Akimoto's first defeat since 2022. Akimoto's setbacks continued on September 27 at ONE Friday Fights 81 in , where he suffered a first-round knockdown en route to a loss against former ONE Flyweight World Champion . Ennahachi's explosive power and counterstriking overwhelmed Akimoto in key moments, dropping the Japanese star to 0-2 for the year and testing his resilience against international competition. Akimoto rebounded strongly in 2025 with a hard-fought split decision victory over former ONE Bantamweight MMA World Title challenger John Lineker on March 23 at ONE 172 in Tokyo, Japan. In Lineker's kickboxing debut, Akimoto utilized superior footwork and precise combinations to outpoint the Brazilian's aggressive power punching, securing the win in a razor-close affair that propelled him back to the #2 spot in the ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing rankings. Akimoto continued his resurgence with a victory over in their rematch on November 16, 2025, at ONE 173: Superbon vs. Noiri in , Japan. Avenging his 2024 loss, the win improved Akimoto's record to 7-3 as of November 19, 2025, and positioned him as a leading contender for another title shot.

Titles and Accomplishments

Kickboxing Titles

Hiroki Akimoto has achieved several notable championships in professional kickboxing, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the sport. His early professional accolades include the MA Japan Kickboxing Federation Featherweight Championship and the WBC Muay Thai Japan Featherweight Championship, captured during his undefeated streak in Japan. Akimoto's international breakthrough came in ONE Championship, where he won the vacant ONE Bantamweight Kickboxing World Championship on March 26, 2022, by defeating Capitan Petchyindee Academy via unanimous decision in a high-stakes bout at ONE X. He made one title defense attempt later that year, losing to Petchtanong Petchfergus by split decision on November 19, 2022, at ONE 163. Post-title, Akimoto maintained elite status, ranked No. 2 globally in the division by Press in June 2022. He was ranked No. 4 in ONE's division as of June 2025, and following his unanimous decision victory over No. 1-ranked on November 16, 2025, at ONE 173, he is positioned as a top contender. These accomplishments build on his amateur successes, which served as foundational precursors to his professional dominance.

Karate and Amateur Honors

Hiroki Akimoto began practicing at the age of eight, quickly rising through the ranks to secure multiple national titles in during his youth. These early successes in honed his striking fundamentals, emphasizing powerful kicks and resilient conditioning that became hallmarks of his style. In , Akimoto achieved international prominence by winning the World Fighting Kyokushin Organization (WFKO) World Pro Championship in the -65kg division, defeating strong international competition to claim the title. This victory marked a pinnacle in his career, showcasing his technical precision and endurance in full-contact bouts. Transitioning to amateur as a teenager, Akimoto demonstrated versatility by capturing the (MAJKF) All in , where he was also named the event's . His momentum continued into 2010, when he advanced to the final of the K-1 Koshien —a prestigious high school-level amateur event—but fell short by second-round TKO against winner Hareyama. These accomplishments underscored his rapid adaptation from rulesets to formats. From 2007 to 2013, Akimoto built an undefeated 19-0 record across his early bouts in , including regional tournament victories that bolstered his reputation as a promising talent. This flawless streak, combined with his pedigree, provided the groundwork for his transition to professional competition, where his foundational skills contributed to later world championship successes.

Professional Fight Record

Hiroki Akimoto enters with an undefeated 19–0 record in , including the WBC Japan Featherweight Championship.
ResultRecordOpponentMethodRound, TimeEventDateLocationNotes
Win27–4 (3 rounds)3 3:00ONE 173: Superbon vs. NoiriNovember 16, 2025,
Win26–4Split decision (3 rounds)3 3:00ONE 172: Takeru vs. RodtangMarch 23, 2025, Lineker's kickboxing debut
Loss25–4 (3 rounds)3 3:00ONE Friday Fights 81September 27, 2024,
Loss25–3 (3 rounds)3 3:00ONE Fight Night 22May 4, 2024,
Loss25–2Split decision (5 rounds)5 3:00ONE 163November 18, 2022, Lost the ONE
Win26–1 (5 rounds)5 3:00March 26, 2022Won the ONE
Win25–1Qiu JianliangTKO (doctor stoppage)3ONE: Winter Warriors IIDecember 3, 2021
Win24–1Zhang Chenglong (3 rounds)3 3:00ONE: Fists of FuryFebruary 26, 2021
Win23–1Zhang ChenglongSplit decision (3 rounds)3 3:00ONE: Reign of Dynasties IINovember 11, 2020Beijing, China
Win22–1Petchmanee Jitmuangnon[Unanimous decision](/page/Unanimous decision) (3 rounds)3 3:00ONE: Masters of DestinyJuly 12, 2019,
Loss21–1Split decision (3 rounds)3 3:00ONE: A New EraMarch 31, 2019,
Win21–0Josh Tonna (3 rounds)3 3:00ONE: Hero's AscentJanuary 25, 2019ONE debut
Win–loss record as of November 19, 2025.

References

  1. https://www.tapology.com/fightcenter/fighters/208720-hiroki-akimoto
  2. https://www.onefc.com/athletes/hiroki-akimoto/
  3. https://www.onefc.com/news/hiroko-akimoto-vs-petchtanong-petchfergus-world-title-clash-to-headline-one-163-on-november-18-2022/
  4. https://evolve-university.com/instructors/hiroki-akimoto/
  5. https://www.onefc.com/features/martial-arts-run-through-hiroki-akimotos-veins/
  6. https://www.onefc.com/features/hiroki-akimoto-says-home-advantage-will-bring-out-his-best/
  7. https://shichishuhirota.wixsite.com/karate/hirokiakimoto
  8. https://www.onefc.com/features/how-an-old-rivalry-spurred-hiroki-akimoto-to-chase-greatness/
  9. https://beyondkick.com/interview/hiroki-akimoto-interview/
  10. https://www.onefc.com/news/akimoto-ready-to-show-improved-strength-skills-in-bantamweight-debut/
  11. https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/news-without-coach-today-hiroki-akimoto-thanks-siyar-bahadurzada-evolve-mma-coaches-success
  12. https://malaysia.news.yahoo.com/evolve-mma-turned-hiroki-akimoto-135559961.html
  13. https://kyokushinkarate.news/en/jfko-all-japan-weight-tournament-results
  14. https://www.mmafighting.com/2010/11/20/180852/k-1-koshien-king-of-under-18-results-and-prospect-report
  15. https://www.onefc.com/videos/hiroki-akimoto-highlights-one-championships-karate-muay-thai-hybrid-star/
  16. https://www.onefc.com/features/flashback-friday-akimoto-returns-to-kickboxing-for-one-debut/
  17. https://www.onefc.com/news/hiroki-akimoto-dazzles-in-debut-topples-josh-tonna-in-manila/
  18. https://www.onefc.com/news/hiroki-akimoto-holds-nothing-back-in-victory-over-kenny-tse/
  19. https://www.onefc.com/news/hiroki-akimoto-narrowly-bests-zhang-chenglong-in-kickboxing-thriller/
  20. https://www.onefc.com/news/akimoto-looking-for-a-better-victory-in-rematch-with-zhang/
  21. https://www.onefc.com/news/akimoto-dethrones-capitan-nong-o-retains-world-title-on-epic-one-x-part-ii-card/
  22. https://beyondkick.com/opinion/beyond-kickboxing-s-2022-fight-of-the-year-capitan-petchyindee-vs-hiroki-akimoto/
  23. https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3171984/one-x-hiroki-akimoto-steals-show-singapore
  24. https://the-fighter.net/f/hiroki-akimoto-the-champion%25E2%2580%2599s-road
  25. https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3204263/one-championship-end-year-awards-top-five-fights-2022
  26. https://www.onefc.com/news/one-163-akimoto-vs-petchtanong-results-and-highlights-for-every-fight/
  27. https://www.onefc.com/videos/petchtanong-is-unforgiving/
  28. https://www.scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3200906/one-championship-petchtanong-surprised-split-win-over-hiroki-akimoto-fans-question-judges-score
  29. https://beyondkick.com/news/one-163-results-petchtanong-pulls-off-the-upset-outclassing-hiroki-akimoto-to-capture-the-one-bantamweight-kickboxing-championship/
  30. https://beyondkick.com/news/hiroki-akimoto-speaks-out-about-his-absense-at-one-165-and-why-he-declined-to-fight-john-lineker-i-cannot-bend-my-ideals-as-a-professional-kickboxer/
  31. https://combatpress.com/2023/09/combat-press-kickboxing-rankings-september-2023/
  32. https://www.onefc.com/news/i-just-barely-passed-this-test-wei-rui-promises-to-level-up-after-tight-debut-win-over-hiroki-akimoto/
  33. https://combatpress.com/2024/05/wei-rui-discusses-win-over-hiroki-akimoto/
  34. https://www.onefc.com/news/one-friday-fights-81-superbon-vs-nattawut-results-and-highlights-for-every-match/
  35. https://beyondkick.com/news/one-friday-fights-81-results/
  36. https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/news-one-172-results-john-lineker-vs-hiroki-akimoto
  37. https://www.lowkickmma.com/hiroki-akimoto-vs-john-lineker/
  38. https://www.onefc.com/news/hiroki-akimoto-defeats-wei-rui-rematch-one-173-results/
  39. https://beyondkick.com/news/hiroki-akimoto-to-face-petchtanong-in-first-title-defense/
  40. https://combatpress.com/2022/06/combat-press-kickboxing-rankings-june-2022/
  41. https://www.onefc.com/rankings/
  42. https://www.onefc.com/news/one-173-results-takeru-segawa-yuki-yoza-nabil-anane-tye-ruotolo-claim-massive-victories-in-tokyo/
  43. https://www.onefc.com/videos/hiroki-akimotos-dangerous-karate-style/
  44. https://www.sportsnjoy.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=717
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