Mixed Martial Artist Ren Hiramoto Denies Doping Allegations

Ren ⁢Hiramoto, a 26-year-old mixed ‍martial artist, held an emergency press ​conference in ⁢Tokyo on ‌September 2, accompanied by two lawyers, to address⁢ the doping allegations against him. Hiramoto completely denied the allegations, stating that he ​has never engaged in doping and has never asked anyone to dope for him.

Hiramoto, known for being ⁣outspoken, was unusually quiet throughout the interview, speaking with a serious expression. He began the interview by apologizing for ⁣causing‍ trouble to RIZIN, his opponent ⁣Mikuru Asakura,⁢ and all martial arts fans. Hiramoto explained that he wanted to address the allegations himself, which⁢ is​ why he⁣ held the ​press conference.

⁣ The controversy surrounding Hiramoto​ started when Yukinori Akazawa, ⁣a mixed martial artist active in DEEP and other events, uploaded a photo ⁢of an exchange between him and Hiramoto ⁤on social media. Akazawa claimed that he had arranged for doping substances and given ​them to Hiramoto. However, Hiramoto denied these allegations, ​stating ​that Akazawa had ‍told him that the substance was a supplement to improve training efficiency.

Hiramoto admitted to buying the supplement but claimed that he did not⁤ use it after being advised by ⁢his agency that even‌ cold medicine could react to ‌doping tests. He ⁢emphasized that he had been⁢ careful about doping and had put⁣ a lot of effort into his fight against ⁤Asakura. Hiramoto expressed⁤ his confusion and disappointment at Akazawa’s accusations, ⁤stating that he had ⁣fought fair ⁤and⁢ square and was ​confident that the test results would prove​ his innocence.

Hiramoto’s lawyer, Yoshino, was also⁤ present at the press conference and stated that they would wait for the results ⁢of ⁤RIZIN’s tests and take necessary actions if needed.⁤ Hiramoto concluded the interview by reiterating his innocence and expressing his commitment to proving it through⁤ the test⁣ results.