The UFC returns to Japan next week for UFC Fight Night: Barnett vs. Nelson at Saitama Super Arena. The Japanese contingent will be well-represented on the card, and each of those local heroes competing at home will be looking to take the next step toward Octagon immortality. So who are the top fighters from the Land of the Rising Sun to compete in the UFC? Here are 20 of the best.
In alphabetical order…
Yoshihiro Akiyama - Osaka
A skilled judo black belt who has no qualms about standing and trading with anyone, Yoshihiro Akiyama made his UFC debut to much fanfare in 2009, and he didn’t disappoint as he decisioned Alan Belcher over three exciting rounds.