The likelihood of finding myself in a fighting ring, octagon, or cage is quite low. However, if I ever did enter, my entry would be serious and respectful. People might question whether they were witnessing a fight or attending a somber event. The reason is clear: facing the embarrassment of performing a K-pop dance and then being knocked out in the opening round, as one fighter in Japan recently experienced, is not appealing.

Ryoma “Jolly” Shishimoto, an MMA fighter, attempted a dance routine before his match. Shishimoto performed moves popularized by the South Korean girl group ILLIT, engaging in a fully choreographed routine at RIZIN 54 in Tokyo’s Toyota Center. This entrance was a distinct departure from typical fight night music, like “Enter Sandman.”

Shishimoto’s opponent, Joe Hiramoto, likely noticed the potential energy drain from such a dance right before the fight. Hiramoto capitalized on this, winning the match decisively with a first-round TKO. Such a dance is better saved for when the victory is assured, not when facing a ready and capable opponent.

Unfortunately for Shishimoto, the fight resulted in a broken jaw and damaged teeth. This experience might serve as an important lesson: avoid exhausting yourself with a dance routine before a fight. Instead, focus on fight training like working on the heavy bag. It’s reminiscent of losing an arm wrestling match after dedicating time to learning a skill like juggling rather than strengthening muscles.

Preparation is key in any match. Ensuring physical readiness should always take precedence over performance theatrics.