Just two days after announcing the acquisition of bantamweight star Bibiano Fernandes, ONE FC confirmed Thursday the hotly-rumored signing of jiu jitsu specialist Shinya Aoki (Pictured).
The fighters will make their promotional debuts at “ONE FC: Pride of a Nation.” The August 31st event takes place in Manila, Philippines at a yet-to-be determined venue.
Their opponents will be named shortly.
“We are thrilled to have Bibiano and Aoki added to the growing list of top fighters in ONE FC’s bantamweight and lightweight divisions,” ONE FC CEO Victor Cui stated. “Both fighters keep moving forward and never stop looking to finish their opponents in spectacular fashion.”
Fernandes and Aoki are now-former Dream champions in their respective weight classes, so believe the rumor mill’s accuracy when it states the Japanese-based MMA organization has shut its doors.
Aoki owns an impressive 30-6-1 professional record, with 19 of his victories coming via submission. “Tobikan Judan” had rattled off seven straight wins before getting steamrolled by Eddie Alvarez at “Bellator 66” in April.