Does the general mixed martial arts enthusiast’s know who Gohkan Saki is?
Probably not. But, if you stay tuned to Strikeforce in the early goings of 2011, you’ll become a quick fan.
One of the most explosive fighters in the K-1 circuit, the talented striker is currently in the final 8 of the K-1 World Grand Prix, which culminates on December 10th.
Saki punched his ticket to the final 8 when he defeated three-time French kickboxing champion Freddy Kemayo. “Crazy Horse” was knocked down early by the eccentric Turk, and after another quick barrage of punches was finished at a little over 2 minutes in the opening round.
Training with some of the best strikers and mixed martial arts stars out of the Golden Glory gym in Holland, Saki would like to make an immediate splash in the heavyweight picture.
MiddleEasy.com picked up the story and state specifically that “After the K-1 World GP, Golden Glory is pushing for Gokhan Saki to join Strikeforce and make his debut sometime in March.”
Assuming the news is correct, his debut with the organization will also likely depend on the outcome of his performances here on out through the Grand Prix. Gohkan is one of the front runners in the tournament, however favorites Alistair Overeem and Semmy Schilt both lead the pack. Ironically enough, all three fighters train under the same roof together out of Golden Glory, however have no qualms with fighting one another.
Saki would also like to follow in his previously mentioned teammates foot steps when he makes his return to MMA. Schilt and Overeem remain the two mixed martial arts fighters who have developed an adept game in the sport, while also competing at the highest level in the kickboxing circuit, which is an amazing feat in of itself.
Gokhan has competed in one mixed martial arts bout in his career, but lost to Englishman James Zikic by TKO in 2004.
So, MMA peeps, what do you make of the news? Do you think Saki could transition well into the MMA scene, given his team and training partners? Who would you like to see him in their with, in the Strikeforce heavyweight stable? Sound off in the comment section below.
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