Sakakibara Talks With Media Pre-PRIDE 30

TOKYO, Oct. 21 — PRIDE President Nobuyuki Sakakibara spoke with the media on Friday in advance of PRIDE 30, which takes place this Sunday at the Saitama Super Arena.

Sherdog.com was there as Sakakibara discussed PRIDE partnering with FILA to create a world grappling championship. This is PRIDE's latest move to promote all aspects of MMA competition, as earlier this year they announced plans to hold stand-up only events beginning in 2006.

The amicable PRIDE boss also expressed that his company will soon announce plans for its first U.S. venture. Though there appeared to be a setback regarding PRIDE rules in California, Sakakibara still indicated that the Golden State would make a great host, mentioning Los Angeles's Dodgers Stadium and Staples Center as possible venues. He did not discount a trip to Nevada, which currently allows mixed martial arts bouts in a ring.

And finally, Sakakibara was asked for his take on the success of Bushido and whether he was satisfied with the state of the PRIDE offshoot.

On-site translation by Yohei Shiokawa (DSE).