Following the departures of Taito Gunji and Masashi Kumura, another high-profile name has exited K-1. The promotion announced earlier today: "As of May 9, 2025, the contract between K-1 and Toma Kuroda has been concluded by mutual agreement."
This marks another setback for the Japanese promotion, long known for its strict and exclusive contracts, as the wave of athletes leaving shows no signs of slowing down.
Kuroda, 24, was the reigning Bantamweight (-53 kg) champion but has now vacated his title in search of greater challenges elsewhere. He has voiced his dissatisfaction with the promotion on social media multiple times, stating, "There are no strong fighters in the K-1 bantamweight division, so I think I'll go join another organization."
Last month, it was announced that Kuroda will compete in SPACE ONE x BOM — a joint event between China’s professional kickboxing promotion SPACE ONE and Japan’s Muay Thai promotion The Battle of Muay Thai (BOM). The event is scheduled for Sunday, May 11.
Ranked No. 5 in the Beyond Kickboxing Rankings, Kuroda remains one of the top talents in his division. A long-term destination has yet to be confirmed, but a move to RISE or ONE Championship appears likely.
