Tony Laramie’s path to a Rizin flyweight title shot ran through grief, addiction and years of self-destructive choices. Fighting helped him regain direction, and after a turning-point loss in 2025, he says he committed to training and a more disciplined life. Now on a three-fight win streak, he faces Makoto Takahashi for the 125-pound title at Rizin 55.

By the Numbers
  • 27 years old
  • 1 win from a Rizin flyweight championship
  • 3 straight wins entering the title fight
  • 6 years old when his older brother died, his mother died and his father went to prison within a short period
Yes, But

Laramie’s comeback is still unfolding: he has acknowledged his past choices and says he has changed, but a title fight is a major test of his progress. He also sees a Rizin title as a step toward his longer-term goal of joining the UFC.

State of Play
  • Laramie has won his last three fights, including a recent victory over Yuki Motoya.
  • He recently signed a new Rizin contract that keeps him with the promotion for the next couple of years.
  • His aggressive, high-pressure style reflects the all-in approach he says has defined his fighting.
What’s Next

Laramie fights Makoto Takahashi for the Rizin flyweight title at Rizin 55. A win would give him a championship and strengthen his case for a future UFC move.

Bottom Line

Laramie’s title shot is more than a chance to win a belt: it’s proof that a difficult past need not dictate what comes next. The next step is to turn personal redemption into a championship result.