A professional MMA fighter, along with other individuals, has been taken into custody under suspicion of smuggling gold into the country. While authorities have not released specific details, it's known that multiple persons are involved in the alleged smuggling ring. The incident has shaken Japan's sports world, given the sport's broad popularity and the fighter's notable in-ring achievements.

In Japan, illicit smuggling of precious metals such as gold is taken very seriously, with severe penalties applying to those found guilty. The arrest of a popular sports figure like an MMA fighter can potentially damage the sport's reputation in the country and undermine the Japan's trust in athletes. Japanese society greatly values honor and fairness, and any scandals involving public figures can have heavy impacts on their careers and personal life.

In the US or EU, gold smuggling is also a severe crime that is likely to lead to heavy penalties. The scandal would similarly have a damaging effect on the individual's career, and the incident would likely trigger investigations into the athlete's league or association for potential systematic issues.