Shinsho Anzai


Shinsho Anzai is a Japanese mixed martial artist and wrestler who competed in the Welterweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. A professional competitor since 2009, he has also competed for Pancrase and King of the Cage.

Background

Born and raised in Japan, Anzai began wrestling in high school at the age of 15. Anzai later continued wrestling at Meiji University, and also attended Kokugakuin University. In amateur wrestling, Anzai was second place at the 2005 All-Japan Junior Olympic Cup, was first place at the 2008 All-Japan Combat Wrestling Championship. Anzai also won the ADCC Asia Trials in 2011 at 99 kg and 2013 at 88 kg, respectively.

Mixed martial arts career

Early career

Anzai made his professional MMA debut in May 2009. He fought exclusively in his native Japan for the Pancrase and King of the Cage promotions. During the next six years he amassed a record of 8-1.

Ultimate Fighting Championship

In his UFC debut, Anzai stepped in to replace Sheldon Westcott against Alberto Mina on August 23, 2014 at UFC Fight Night 48. He lost the fight via TKO in the first round.
In his second fight for the promotion, Anzai faced Roger Zapata on September 26, 2015 at. He won the fight via TKO due to a hand injury Zapata sustained in the third round.
After nearly two years away from the promotion, Anzai returned to face Luke Jumeau on September 23, 2017 at. He won the fight by unanimous decision.
Anzai faced Jake Matthews on June 23, 2018 at UFC Fight Night 132. He lost the fight via rear-naked choke in the first round.
Anzai was released from the UFC on June 2019.

Post-UFC career

After the his release from the UFC, Anzai won one fight in his native Deep promotion before signing with the Bellator. He made his promotional debut against Michael Page at on December 29, 2019. He lost the fight via knockout in the second round.

Championships and achievements