Kazuki Matsumoto

Kickboxing (Super) welterweight (70 kg)

Kazuki Matsumoto is a Japanese kickboxer of Japanese-Filipino heritage who rose through multiple weight classes to compete in the K-1 WORLD MAX tournament in the up-to-70 kg division.

Profile

The story

Matsumoto was born in Minami-Alps City in Yamanashi Prefecture and represents Japan and the Philippines. In April 2022, he joined the K-1 Group. He started there with several knockout victories, then suffered losses to Koki Akada and Shota Meguro before bouncing back with more wins. In July 2023, he defeated Daiki Nagumo by decision.

Matsumoto previously competed in the 60 kg and 62.5 kg divisions before moving up to 70 kg in September 2025. As a southpaw, he built a professional record of 7 wins, 6 losses, and 1 draw. He cites Masato as an important role model and expresses the ambition to approach his level and presence. In 2026, he represented Japan in the Final 16 of K-1 WORLD MAX in Tokyo, facing Cambodia's Lorn Panha.

In the ring

Fighting style

Southpaw with an attacking, knockout-focused style. His results also show that he can win fights on points.

Results

Performance

Active within the K-1 Group since April 2022. Multiple knockout victories at the start of his K-1 career. Points win over Daiki Nagumo in July 2023. Progressed from -60 kg via -62.5 kg to -70 kg. Japanese representative in the K-1 WORLD MAX 2026 Final 16. Professional record of 14 bouts with 7 wins, 4 knockouts, 6 losses, and 1 draw.

Over the years

Timeline

December 17, 1996: born in Minami-Alps City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
April 2022: joins the K-1 Group and begins with multiple knockout victories.
2022–2023: loses to Koki Akada and Shota Meguro.
July 2023: defeats Daiki Nagumo by decision.
September 2025: moves from the 62.5 kg division to the 70 kg division.
September 12, 2026: faces Lorn Panha in the opening round of the Final 16 of K-1 WORLD MAX in Tokyo.

Influence

Legacy

Matsumoto represents the Japanese K-1 talent pool and a new generation of fighters who look up to icons such as Masato. His career is still developing and does not yet have a completed, iconic chapter.