ROMAN 4: Akira Shoji Returns in Unlimited-Time Vale Tudo War on TrillerTV+
Combat sports history will be made at ROMAN 4, streaming on TrillerTV+, as former PRIDE FC legend Akira Shoji steps back into competition 15 years after his last MMA bout.
In a shocking and highly anticipated return, the 52-year-old PRIDE veteran will face fellow warrior Hideki "Shrek" Sekine in a brutal unlimited-time Vale Tudo fight under R.O.M.A rules — allowing headbutts and groin strikes. No time limits. No safety nets. Just raw, old-school combat.
Akira Shoji became a household name during PRIDE's golden era, competing from the promotion's inaugural event in 1997 through PRIDE 34. A fearless competitor, Shoji battled legends such as Renzo Gracie, Mark Coleman, Dan Henderson, Maurício "Shogun" Rua, Murilo Rua, Semmy Schilt, and Igor Vovchanchyn. Known for his charisma and warrior spirit, Shoji was beloved for stepping into the ring against anyone — regardless of size or reputation.
Now, after years devoted to professional wrestling, business, and public service, Shoji returns to the cage for one more chapter.
Across from him stands former police officer turned MMA fighter and pro wrestler Hideki "Shrek" Sekine, a powerhouse affiliated with the Bonsai Jiu-Jitsu team. Sekine, who last competed at ROMAN 2 in 2025, has vowed to use this fight to "find answers to his life."
With pride, legacy, and personal redemption on the line, this clash promises violence and emotion in equal measure.
Adding even more gravitas to the night, legendary former PRIDE referee Yuji Shimada — who has officiated over 1,000 major MMA contests — will serve as special guest referee for the main event.
Launched in 2024, Roots of Martial Arts Network (ROMAN) is reviving the spirit of true Vale Tudo competition with three unique rule sets:
Unlimited-Time Vale Tudo (R.O.M.A Rules)
Gi MMA (ROMAN COMBAT)
New Jiu-Jitsu Rules (ROMAN JIUJITSU)
The promotion has quickly carved out a bold identity in Japan's combat sports scene — and now reaches a global audience for the first time.
Watch ROMAN 4 on TrillerTV+
For the first time ever, ROMAN streams internationally with live English commentary on TrillerTV+, bringing this historic showdown to fight fans worldwide.
