On the 9th, RIZIN held a public press conference at Tokyo Dome City in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, and announced that Mikuru Asakura (32), who will be making his comeback at the "RIZIN Otoko Matsuri" to be held at the Tokyo Dome on May 4th, will face former RIZIN featherweight champion Chihiro Suzuki (25). Suzuki lost by decision to Karshyga Dautbek (Kazakhstan) after a fierce battle at "RIZIN.50" on March 30th. He had sustained damage and it seemed like he was gone, but it was suddenly decided that he would be taking part in a big match.

At the press conference, Asakura said, "I was really frustrated so I came back to face Hiramoto, but with Hiramoto absent, we lost our original purpose and RIZIN was in a pinch, so Suzuki showed his manliness and came up. RIZIN continues thanks to fighters who love RIZIN so much. More than a men's festival, it's a manliness festival. It's going to be a life-or-death battle. It's going to be covered in blood. Come and see the fate of my career in martial arts." Suzuki responded, "I came back as quickly as possible. I wanted to take some time to recharge, but I guess I get better after all. I'm fired up, so Asakura, let's go one-on-one at the Dome."

Asakura was originally scheduled to return to the ring after announcing his retirement in a rematch with Ren Hiramoto (26), whom he had lost to in July of last year, but the plan was scrapped due to Hiramoto's injury. YA-MAN and Chihiro Suzuki, who were considered possible replacements, both lost in matches at the end of March, and the situation was in tatters, but various names were floated by players and fans on social media. And on this day, 25 days before the tournament, it was finally decided to make the announcement.

The press conference was held at 8pm at Tokyo Dome City Attractions and was free for public viewing, but people started gathering 4 hours before the start in order to see popular fighters, and the standing room only seats in the grass plaza were filled 1 hour before the start. Crowds also gathered around the venue overlooking the Tokyo Dome, where the event was held, bringing with it a total of over 1000 people, indicating the high level of interest.