[Tylerzd]

Originally Posted by Lavos

he wasn't in great shape either.... as long as he doesn't take anymore beatings i'm ok with it.

If he continues to fight he will continue to sustain damage. Especially so with the way the Japanese refs like to let him get clobbered on the remote chance that he might make a comeback later in the fight (Smirnovas).

Jordan Breen goes on and on about how he thinks concern for the safety of Sakuraba is silly, I strongly disagree. This guy has had brain circulation problems in the past. If anyone is going to develop a subderal hematoma during a fight and keel over it's Saku. He has to retire. Failing that at least just ensure he only fights over the hill veterans like himself.

[CPH]

The only indication I've seen of where his drive is at these days was after the Akiyama fight. Seeing Saku protest so vehemently told me that he is still a fiery competitor. Actually, that is something not really much talked about when it comes to Sak but that guy really enjoyed winning, being the best. He was a dominator.
I don't know how he feels about his abilities at this point in his career but it's obvious to anyone that his reflexes, mobility, shot ..are gone, he's had that neck/head injury, he comes to fights with both his legs almost completely wrapped and those are just the the things we know about...
Anyway, bottom line is that when a guy who thrives on winning is a shell of his former self, no longer being able to hang with the best and putting himself in danger while trying, there is no reason for him to continue. I wish him the best but I hope it's away from the ring.

[MethadoneMan]

The fight should have never happened. Saku should just retire already.

[cerfani]

i think FEG begged him to join the GP. i dont think saku cared to win. just another paycheck for saku. Saku might prefer teaching at his dojo more now that he is older, your interests change with age

[whiteb3lte]

He reminds me of Joe Louis fighting just to pay the IRS or perhaps in Sakurabas case the Yakuza

[White Snake]

Originally Posted by GOCANES751

I concur. These people are the worst match makers. Manhoef vs. Saku makes zero sense.

Saku wouldnt have beaten Jacare or Miller either. He hasnt beaten anybody relevant in the past 3 years.

[Ronwah]

I don't think I could take watching another Saku beating.

[BANNANASPLEET]

saku vs mayhem milller anyone?

[Zvengeance]

frank trigg said saku barely trains anymore and is usually smoking his life away lol.

[Bill Cosby]

So its pretty much common knowledge Saku is pretty much uncaring than about gps and rankings etc , than why bother competing at all anymore? if he were to head his dojo and nothing more he would still be greatly respected for his work in MMA , I would say he's in it just for the money .. but I imagine he would get paid alot for a match with Tamura than with pretty much anyone else (maybe Yoshida)