IGF is another option in Japan. A hybrid MMA/pro wrestling promotion, IGF dabbles in both ends of the spectrum, something Japanese audiences are more accepting of than American fans. Founded by the legendary Antonio Inoki, their very first show featured a post-WWE, pre-UFC era Brock Lesnar taking on Kurt Angle. As the company evolved, they transitioned to including MMA, and the IGF Championship transformed from a pro wrestling title to a legitimate mixed martial arts title. Famed Japanese Olympian Satoshii Ishii became the first champion to win the title in a true MMA fight; at the time Ishii was one of the best heavyweights outside of the UFC and the best in Japan. Pride/UFC legend Mirko Cro-Cop then defeated Ishii for the title, and defended it in a rematch before recently re-signing with the UFC. That means the title is currently vacant, with Ishii a possibility to fight for it once more. Alberto del Rio, who was himself once defeated by Cro-Cop, would be a perfect opponent in this situation.