R. Kubota vs N. Kuziutina Prediction 10 September 2026
💣 The Kyocera Dome in Osaka is set to host a thrilling women's minimumweight (up to 49 kg) clash as part of the blockbuster Super RIZIN 5 card. Olympic judo bronze medalist Natalia Kuziutina steps into the Japanese ring to take on local superstar Rena Kubota. For the Russian fighter, this bout presents a prime opportunity to cement her status as the division’s top title contender. Meanwhile, Kubota is eager to redeem herself in front of her home crowd after falling short in her previous championship outing.
Head-to-head statistics R. Kubota - N. Kuziutina
Rena Kubota Player Overview
35-year-old Japanese fighter Rena Kubota stands out as one of the most recognizable stars in the RIZIN women’s roster, boasting a record of 15 wins and 6 losses. Built on a foundation of Muay Thai and kickboxing, her fighting style is explosive-eight of her MMA victories have come by way of knockout. Kubota last stepped into the ring in December 2025, where she was submitted by champion Seika Izawa in the second round. Exceptionally well-versed in the nuances of Japanese ring rules, Rena has a keen sense of timing and never shies away from heavy exchanges. With the home crowd in Osaka firmly behind her, she’ll do everything in her power to withstand the pressure from her Russian opponent.
Match Results: Rena Kubota
Natasha Kuziutina Player Overview
37-year-old Russian athlete Natalia Kuziutina made the switch to mixed martial arts as a judo legend, boasting an Olympic bronze from Rio and multiple World Championship medals. Her MMA career has been nothing short of stellar: 10 wins against just a single defeat, plus an interim title in the prestigious LFA promotion. Kuziutina burst onto the RIZIN scene in the spring of 2026, submitting the experienced Ayaka Hamasaki with a slick armbar in the opening round. Her signature weapons remain her phenomenal hip throws, lightning-fast transitions to submissions, and outstanding positional control on the mat. The Russian is in peak form and has shown she can win even on hostile ground.
Match Results: Natasha Kuziutina
⭐ Editor's Pick
Despite both fighters possessing solid finishing skills, this clash in Osaka is shaping up to be a gritty, tactical affair. Kubota is well aware of her opponent’s Olympic-caliber grappling, so expect her to keep her distance and steer clear of risky exchanges. Kuzyutina, meanwhile, will need time to break down the Japanese athlete’s resistance along the cage and pick her moment for a takedown. Both women have top-level experience, which should help them stay composed under pressure and avoid costly mistakes. Backing over 2.5 rounds looks like a well-founded prediction for this bout.