The following is an excerpt from an article on TheFightNetwork.com:
The Fight Entertainment Group reaffirmed Tuesday in Tokyo that 28-year-old PRIDE lightweight champion Takanori Gomi holds an interest in making the jump to K-1 HERO’S. The announcement was made by FEG producer Sadaharu Tanigawa during a press conference detailing the upcoming middleweight tournament card — the finals will be held Monday, Sept. 17 at Yokohama Arena.
“I’m not sure on the progress of the contract,” Tanigawa said, “but he has stated his interest in transferring to HERO’S.” Gomi’s PRIDE contract ends in September, and it appears definite his move to HERO’S will follow soon after.
Gomi’s interest in fighting for HERO’S seems to center on his attachment to Japan; he has said repeatedly he would like to remain in his home country. Gomi (27-3-0) last fought in February, when he was submitted by Nick Diaz at PRIDE 33; the decision was later ruled a no contest when Diaz tested positive for marijuana use.
Tanigawa also confirmed FEG is making a concerted effort to recruit new fighters, especially those who fought previously for PRIDE. “Besides Gomi, if there are fighters with great spirit, I want them to come to us one after the other,” Tanigawa said. The announcement comes after former PRIDE fighters Kiyoshi Tamura (14-10-0) and Ikuhisa Minowa (36-25-8) made their debuts for K-1 HERO’S.
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