KODO replaced Norifumi Yamamoto in 2 days notice to fight Joseph Benavidez on DREAM 5 Lightweight GP Final 2008.
Kodo started his career in early 2006, facing Tomohiko Yoshida at Powergate 6 on March 5, 2006.
After three hard fought rounds, Kodo would win the fight via split decision.
[1] Kodo would fight against lower-tier opponents in Shooto, compiling a professional record of 6–1–2, before signing with Dream.
Benavidez, who was relatively unknown at the time, defeated Kodo via first round guillotine choke.