Satoshi Ishii Fighting Without a Gi

After winning a gold medal in judo at the 2008 Olympics Games, Satoshi Ishii made it clear that he wanted to compete in mixed martial arts . Recently, he also made it clear that he wants to fight for the UFC. Which, of course, means that he won't be able to wear a gi.

A gi is a martial arts uniform that judokas wear while in competition. The strong cloth involved allows competitors to grab it and use it to their advantage with submissions and throws. Along with this, many former judokas choose to wear these uniforms when competiting overseas in MMA where they are allowed (Hidehiko Yoshida, for instance).

They are not allowed in America. Hence, by jumping in with the UFC, Ishii is betting on his ability to transition to fighting without this garment. Can he become another Karo Parisyan and acclimate to the new situation well? We'll see.

Regardless, it's great to see a top caliber athlete like him jumping into mixed martial arts. Ishii will train with American Top Team in Coconut Creek, Florida. He will also be a guest of Dana White's at UFC 92.