One of the most prolific mixed martial artists in the world, Yoshihiro Akiyama is one of the best fighters to ever come out of Japan. In 2018, he signed with Bellator MMA and won his first fight in America.
Although his career started way back in 2004, Akiyama has become a household name thanks to his incredible fighting prowess and cult following from fans who love watching him fight. Read on to learn more details about Yoshihiro Akiyama 2023: Net Worth, Salary, and Earnings.
About Yoshihiro Akiyama
Yoshihiro Akiyama is a renowned mixed martial artist hailing from Japan. Born on July 29, 1975, in Osaka Prefecture, he has built a reputation as one of the most formidable fighters in his weight class.
He started his professional career in Korean promotions before making his way to Japan’s K-1 heroes and eventually signing with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
Akiyama made his UFC debut at UFC 100 against Alan Belcher, where he lost via a controversial split decision. Despite this setback, he continued to impress fans with his impressive striking skills and incredible athleticism.
Early Life
Akiyama Yoshihiro, a successful professional MMA fighter, had an outstanding career in judo before turning to MMA. He began practicing judo at the young age of three and also received instruction in karate, boxing, taekwondo, wrestling, and anti-surrender techniques.
At the 2001 Asian Judo Championships, Akiyama won the gold medal representing an American team.
Akiyama made his debut as a professional MMA fighter in 1975 and won his first fight by submission within the first minute of the bout.
Yoshihiro Akiyama’s Net Worth Details
Yoshihiro Akiyama’s net worth is estimated to be $4 million as of 2025, which makes him one of the richest athletes in Japan and Asia.
Yoshihiro Akiyama’s salary is around $248,000 million per year. He earns most of his money from fighting in professional boxing matches.
Career Earnings
Yoshihiro Akiyama’s career earnings are estimated to be $1.3 million as of June 2023. Akiyama’s earnings from the UFC totaled $1 million while his Strikeforce fighting career earned him an additional $ 300k.
He also made approximately $2 million in other income from sponsorships and endorsements during his time as a professional fighter.
Endorsement
Akiyama has been sponsored by many brands, including Nissin Foods (the parent company of Cup Noodles), BOSS, and Keihan Electric Railway.
Personal Facts
| Full Name | Yoshihiro Akiyama |
| Nickname | Sexyama |
| Born | July 29, 1975 |
| Years Active | 2004- |
| Height | 178 cm (5 ft 10 in) |
| Weight | 77 kg (170 lb; 12 st 2 lb) |
| Age | 47 |
| Birthplace | Osaka, Japan |
| Residence | Japan |
| Religion | Atheist |
| Nationality | South Korean, Japanese |
| Net Worth | $4 million (as of 2023) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Salary | $200,000 |
| Instagram Handle | @akiyamachoo |
Wife
Shiho Yano is a Japanese who was once a beauty queen and model. She is also an actress, having starred in the 2016 film “The Reunion”. Yoshihiro Akiyama married Shiho Yano in 2007 after dating her for eight years before their marriage.
Awards and Achievements
Akiyama has won multiple tournaments and championships in his MMA career. He won the Pride Welterweight Grand Prix 2008 and 2009 and the 2010 tournament. In addition, he was a finalist in both 2007 and 2009.
| Fights | W | L | D | KO W | Sub W | Dec W | KO L | Sub L |
| 25 | 16 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
FAQs
Who is Yoshihiro Akiyama?
Yoshihiro Akiyama, also known as Choo Sung-hoon, is a Japanese mixed martial artist and judoka born on July 29, 1975, in Osaka, Japan. He’s of Korean descent and is known as “Sexyama” in the MMA world.
What are Yoshihiro Akiyama’s biggest achievements in martial arts?
Akiyama has had success in both judo and MMA. In judo, he won gold medals at the 2001 Asian Championships (representing South Korea) and the 2002 Asian Games (representing Japan). In MMA, he became the K-1 HERO’s Light Heavyweight Grand Prix Tournament Champion and had a successful career in the UFC.
How did Yoshihiro Akiyama start his martial arts journey?
Akiyama began training in judo at the incredibly young age of three, following in his father’s footsteps, who was also a judo champion. He later added other martial arts to his skillset, including karate, boxing, kickboxing, wrestling, and submission grappling.
When did Yoshihiro Akiyama transition from judo to MMA?
Akiyama switched from judo to MMA in 2004. He made his MMA debut at the K-1 Premium 2004 Dynamite event, where he won his first fight by armbar submission against Francois Botha.
What’s Yoshihiro Akiyama’s fighting style like?
Akiyama is known for his strong judo background, which he uses mainly defensively in MMA. He focuses on defending takedowns and getting top position for ground and pound. He’s also developed sharp counterpunching skills and is known for catching low kicks.
Has Yoshihiro Akiyama fought in the UFC?
Yes, Akiyama signed with the UFC in 2009 and debuted at UFC 100. He had several memorable fights in the promotion, including three that earned him “Fight of the Night” bonuses.
What does Yoshihiro Akiyama do outside of fighting?
Akiyama has a diverse range of interests and activities outside the cage. He’s appeared on Korean reality TV shows like “The Return of Superman” with his daughter. He also enjoys music, sings, and plays the guitar. In 2009, he opened his “Akiyama Dojo” gym in Tokyo.
Is Yoshihiro Akiyama married?
Yes, Akiyama married Japanese fashion model Shiho Yano (known professionally as SHIHO) in March 2009. They have a daughter named Sarang, born in October 2011.
What’s an interesting fact about Yoshihiro Akiyama’s family history?
Akiyama’s great-grandfather, Choo Jeong-won, was born in what is now Jeju City, South Korea. During the Japanese occupation of Korea, the family moved to Japan and adopted Japanese names to help settle in.
Is Yoshihiro Akiyama still actively competing?
As of early 2024, Akiyama was still competing. His most recent fight was at ONE 165 in January 2024, where he faced Nieky Holzken. At 48 years old, he’s still showing his passion for martial arts competition.
