Ryoji Kudo (born April 3, 1993) was physically weak when he was a toddler. His father thought martial arts maybe a good way to build a stronger body, therefore, at age 5, Ryoji began training in Kyokushin Karate.

During school years, Ryoji tried various sports - wrestling from age 8 & judo from age 13 - eventually decided to concentrate on wrestling.

After finishing his wrestling career with the Kokushikan University, Ryoji joined TRIBE TOKYO M.M.A. gym based in Tokyo founded by UFC / PRIDE veteran Ryo Chonan.

Ryoji made his pro debut in 2017 and won first three in a row finishing two of them. Ryoji took a draw in his fourth, and a first loss at his fifth fight via unanimous decision.

Ryoji bounced back immediately and won next seven fights, faced SASUKE for Shooto's world title in July, 2021.

Ryoji was actually injured prior to this fight yet still took the fight to the judges' decision.

In 2022, Ryoji signed with the Professional Fight League and scheduled to make North American debut in April.

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MMA record: 10-2-1 / height: 5'7" (170 cm) / weight: 145 lbs (65 kg)