Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao will face former K-1 champion Rukiya Ambo in a three-round, 152-pound exhibition boxing bout at Super Rizin 3 in Saitama on July 28.
The organization did not disclose why Pacquiao's original opponent, Rizin featherweight champion Chihiro Suzuki, withdrew from the bout.
Pacquiao has won 62 of his 72 professional boxing bouts, won and defended titles in multiple weight classes, and has long discussed the possibility of fighting in the Rizin ring.
Ampo, who is 0-1 in MMA, has a record of 27 wins, 8 losses and 1 draw as a professional kickboxer, with 14 wins by knockout and has won and defended the K-1 super lightweight title.
“I've heard that the opponent has been changed, but of course that's no problem,” Pacquiao said in a statement. “I was looking forward to the fight after seeing Suzuki Chihiro's brave attitude in Yoyogi the other day. But, well, if it's due to an injury, that can't be helped. Injuries are a part of life for fighters, and I wish her a speedy recovery.”
“I would like to thank Ambo Rukiya for stepping forward as my new opponent and not being afraid to challenge me. I will prove that boxing is noble, wonderful, and above all, extremely challenging. I am looking forward to July 28th.”
The main event of Super RIZIN 3 will be a featherweight showdown between Mikuru Asakura and Ren Hiramoto, with the winner facing Suzuki for a chance to win the 145-pound title. BKFC flyweight titleholder John Dodson will face Takaki Seiya in a bare-knuckle boxing match.
