Do you think you can defeat Akiyama?
Honestly, I think so. I’m the one who is very serious about becoming a great fighter. I love Japanese MMA and I’m always very motivated to be better. On the other hand, he is not serious about fighting. You will easily see our differences…if we fight. I don’t care whether he changes an attitude of mind as a fighter or not. I have a pride as a fighter. I like the way I live and fight.
— Shinya Aoki throws out the idea for a superfight with Yoshihiro Akiyama (aka Michael Jackson) at this week’s DREAM press conference. Aoki also mentioned a possible New Year’s Eve match with former K-1 champion Badr Hari, who is set to face Hong Man Choi at K-1’s WGP Final 16 in Seoul later this month.