Rakuten Eagles announced on the 21st that Makoto Shinryu, a native of Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, who will be competing in the RIZIN flyweight title match to be held at Xebio Arena Sendai on June 6th (Saturday), will throw the ceremonial first pitch at their game against Lotte on May 22nd.

▼ Makoto Shinryu

"Hello, I'm Makoto Shinryu, a martial artist. I am truly honored to have been given this wonderful opportunity to throw the ceremonial first pitch for Rakuten Eagles in my hometown of Sendai. I myself experienced the earthquake and went through some hardships, but I was able to fulfill my dream of becoming a martial artist. I want to convey to the people of Tohoku that dreams can come true if you work hard, and I would be happy if I could give everyone even a little bit of strength. I will do my best on the day. Thank you."