Akano was part of the one-night Strikeforce 135-pound women's tournament on August 13, 2010 at . A random drawing was held on the day of the weigh-ins to determine first-round matchups and Akano faced Carina Damm in the opening round of the tournament. Akano submitted Damm with a triangle armbar in the second round to advance to the tournament final. She faced Miesha Tate and was defeated by Unanimous Decision.
Akano
Damm