Akio Mori (ringname: Musashi) has had a few good years and a few terrible months. K-1 matchmakers have mercilessly put their fledgling Japanese talent against dangerous world class opposition for as long as anyone can remember. Mori survived the beating and rose to the #2 place in the K-1 two years in a row (2003 – 2004). Then the beatings started again. 

Without a world class Japanese contender, the K-1 will be in serious danger for survival. They lost their NTV contract. Masato Kobayashi (middleweight) is not a favorite to win the MAX title anytime soon. There are no replacements for Mori waiting. Mori’s health and competitiveness are essential at this point in time.

Mori is a skilled ambidextrous fighter with a blazing middle kick. He isn’t a power puncher and any KOs he scores are against horribly under-prepared opponents. Still he is a marvel to watch as he finds angles for offense and defense.

The year 2007 should be an improvement over 2006. The K-1 appear to be finally coming to grips with the fact that they should take care of their assets better. You will likely see Mori collecting a few wins this year but making no real threat to the Grand Prix.