Hiroshi Izumi is a high level Japanese Judoka and currently a prospect in the light heavyweight division. Among his many accomplishments, Izumi was a Silver Medalist at the 2004 Athens Olympics (90 kg) and a Gold Medalist at the 2005 World Judo Championships. Although he competes at 205 pounds, Izumi stands only 5'8" and may need to change weight divisions as he progresses in his fighting career.

Given his judo credentials it's not surprise that Izumi is a strong clinch grappler. He possesses excellent lower body strength and a deep arsenal of trips and takedowns from in close. Izumi is a proficient grappler who displays quick transitions and a good top control game. He shows strong ground and pound potential, proving capable of throwing heavy punches from top position. Although his MMA grappling game shows promise, as an Olympic Medal Judoka it's quite surprising (and frustrating) that Izumi doesn't use his grappling abilities as much as he could. Proceeding in his career he would likely benefit from making better use of the biggest strength in his arsenal.

Izumi will press the action and let his hands go, but his standup game is still developing. He looks to load up with his cross and overhand right, but given his lack of reach and technical aptitude, Izumi often gets caught reaching and leaving himself very open. Still very green on his feet, Izumi isn't great at judging distance and will need to work on his range. From in close, Izumi's shown susceptibility in the clinch where he's struggled and eaten plenty of knees. While Izumi has shown willingness to engage on his feet, he's been thoroughly outclassed by superior strikers and will need to work on his technical skills, footwork, and defensive game.