Vitaly Shemetov’s long running campaign to get a Rizin fight appears to have finally been successful. The Russian heavyweight is set to face Jake Heun at the Saitama Super Arena on July 28th.
Shemetov (23-9-0-1) even flew to Japan in an attempt to ingratiate himself with the promotion. He has been extremely vocal on Twitter about his desire to fight for Rizin and Nobuyuki Sakakibara has apparently decided to grant the Russian his wish:
https://twitter.com/shemetov_vitaly/status/1141351705390411776
On July 28th Shemetov says he will face Heun (13-9) in a heavyweight bout. The American is already a veteran of two fights for the promotion and is coming off a split decision win over Roque Martinez at Rizin 16 last month.
As previously announced Rizin 17 will feature Ulka Sasaki, Shintaro Ishiwatari, Yuki Motoya, Hiromasa Ogikubo, Mikuru Asakura and Yusuke Yachi. Meanwhile Road FC 105lbs champion Ham Seo Hee has publicly stated that she would be on the card.
Rizin 17, Tokyo, July 28th
Ulka Sasaki vs. Shintaro Ishiwatari (Bantamweight)
Yuki Motoya vs. Hiromasa Ogikubo (Bantamweight)
Yusuke Yachi vs. Mikuru Asakura (Lightweight)
Jake Heun vs. Vitaly Shemetov (Heavyweight)*
Ham Seo Hee vs. TBA (Super Atomweight)*
* = not confirmed by the promotion
