As the boxing world turns its eyes to Riyadh this week for The Ring V: Night of the Samurai on December 27, 2025, lets take a look at the undercard fights. 

The first of the night will be Japan’s rising star Reito Tsutsumi (not to be confused with brother Hayato who is also fighting on Thais card) taking on Mexico’s battle-tested Leobardo Quintana in a clash of youthful promise against gritty experience. This fight is part of a stacked all-Japanese vs. international card headlined by Naoya Inoue defending his undisputed super bantamweight titles against Alan Picasso, but don’t sleep on this one—it’s got the makings of a sleeper hit amid the samurai-themed spectacle.

Breaking Down The Fighters

Reito Tsutsumi (Japan, 3-0, 2 KOs): At just 23 years old, Tsutsumi is the epitome of a blue-chip prospect transitioning seamlessly from a stellar amateur career to the pros. Born on August 23, 2002, in Chiba City, he stands at 5’5″ with a 66-inch reach, bringing a compact, explosive style honed through years of high-level competition. His amateur record is impressive: 59 wins against only 2 losses, including a gold medal at the 2021 World Youth Championships and a berth at the senior World Championships that same year.

Turning pro in early 2025, Tsutsumi has wasted no time, going 3-0 with two stoppages in just nine rounds of action. His most recent win was a stoppage victory this past July. Showcasing improved power and ring IQ. 

As a Ring Magazine ambassador, Tsutsumi fights with technical precision, sharp footwork, and a relentless pressure that overwhelms opponents early. He’s undefeated for a reason, and his youth allows him to absorb punishment while dishing out calculated counters. Expect him to use his speed and amateur pedigree to control the pace, looking for openings to land those KO blows.

Leobardo Quintana (Mexico, 11-1, ~5 KOs): Nicknamed “El Chino,” the 24-year-old from Mexicali brings a more seasoned resume to the ring, having turned pro in 2022 and compiling 13 bouts (72 rounds) with a 41.67% knockout rate.  His record stands at 11-1, with the lone loss likely teaching him valuable lessons in durability and strategy. 

Quintana is a classic Mexican fighter: tough, forward-pressing, and willing to trade in the pocket to wear down foes. He’s faced a variety of opponents, including a recent win streak that highlights his ability to go the distance when needed. At around the same height as Tsutsumi, he matches up well physically but lacks the same amateur shine, relying instead on pro experience to grind out victories. His style is aggressive and volume-based, but he can be vulnerable to sharper technicians if he overcommits. This will be his biggest stage yet, and a win could catapult him into contender status.

While both fighters are young, Tsutsumi’s polish and power against Quintana’s endurance and heart will be the test. The Japanese fighter’s superior fundamentals give him an edge, but Quintana’s Mexican grit could make it competitive if he drags it into the later rounds.

Official Pick:

While Quintana’s experience makes him a live underdog, I see Tsutsumi continuing his ascent. His amateur background and recent stoppage power should overwhelm the Mexican in the mid-rounds. Official pick: Reito Tsutsumi by TKO in round 6.

Where to Watch:

The entire card Ring 5 fight card, including Tsutsumi vs. Quintana, streams live this Saturday, early!!!

Watch: DAZN pay-per-view worldwide. 

Pricing: varies by region—$69.99 in the US, £19.99 in the UK—

Start Time: 4 AM PT / 7 AM ET here in the USA, on December 27.

Per @boxingnbbq on 𝕏 ring walk times for the 4 major fights are here:

Don’t miss this one; it’s part of a blockbuster night that could define the end of 2025 in boxing!

By Vincent

Photo courtesy of Ring Magazine