Satoshi Ishii

Gold medalist Satoshi Ishii quits judo federation to become pro MMA fighter

Japan Probe (Free subscription) | 11/01/2008

At a recent reception held at the imperial palace, Judo gold medalist Satoshi Ishii surprised Emperor Akihito and the press by directly stating that he had no plans to participate in the 2012 Olympic games. The press followed him around every day, repeatedly asking him if he planned on becoming a professional fighter and [...]

Judoka Ishii to switch to MMA

Japan Times (Free subscription) | 10/30/2008

Judoka Satoshi Ishii, who won the men's over 100-kg gold medal at this year's Beijing Olympics, is to quit judo and become a professional mixed martial artist, judo sources said Friday. The 21-year-old Ishii visited the All Japan Judo Federation on Friday to notify it of his decision and is expected to formally announce his switch to mixed martial arts at a news conference in Osaka...

• Judo Olympic gold medalist leaving sport for MMA - ESPN

Judo Olympic gold medalist leaving sport for MMA

ESPN (Free subscription) | 10/31/2008

Olympic gold medalist Satoshi Ishii is giving up judo to take up a career in mixed martial arts, according to a published report.