Japanese flyweight Kyoji Horiguchi will compete this Saturday at UFC Vegas 113, marking his return to the UFC after several years away. With a professional record of 35 wins, five losses, and one no contest, Horiguchi openly declared his ultimate goal is to capture the UFC flyweight championship, expressing enthusiasm about fighting again so soon.
Setting Conditions for Title Opportunity
The UFC flyweight division currently faces uncertainty following injuries and changes in the championship landscape. Alexandre Pantoja was injured in a December bout against Josh Van, which led to the belt changing hands. Meanwhile, Brandon Moreno is scheduled to headline UFC Mexico City, but with Asu Almabayev withdrawing, ranked #15 contender Lone’er Kavanagh will replace him.
Horiguchi disclosed during the Las Vegas media day that he was approached about a title shot but agreed only if he defeats his upcoming opponent, Amir Albazi, at UFC Vegas 113.
“Yeah. Two days ago, yeah. They offered me, but I answered to them, if I win the fight, I can do it,”
Horiguchi said.
“But if I lose, I can’t.”
Confidence Amidst Contenders in Japan
Japan now boasts two strong contenders in the flyweight division: Kyoji Horiguchi and Tatsuro Taira. Although Taira might secure the belt before Horiguchi, the latter remains unbothered by competition within his home country.
“I think [Taira could win the belt first], but I don’t give a sh*t. Anyway, I will get the belt,”
Horiguchi asserted.
“First, second, it doesn’t matter. I will get it.”
The fighter from American Top Team is unfazed by waiting behind Taira or possibly Pantoja in the title queue, emphasizing his determination regardless of the order.
Encouraging Growth of Japanese UFC Fighters
Horiguchi also shared support for fellow Japanese UFC talent Rinya Nakamura, a bantamweight who has compiled a 4-1 UFC record after earning his contract through Road to UFC. He sees promise in the Road to UFC platform as a pathway for Japanese fighters to enter the promotion.
“Things are going pretty well for him. And for the Road to UFC, Japanese fighters have opportunities to earn contracts in the UFC, so that’s going to be a great challenge for them. Yeah, Rinya has earned it, and he’s got the chance.”
Looking Ahead to UFC Vegas 113 and Title Pursuits
As Horiguchi prepares to face Amir Albazi in Las Vegas, his unwavering focus is on reclaiming a top position in the flyweight division and ultimately capturing the UFC flyweight title. His confidence and conditional acceptance of a title shot underline the high stakes and tension surrounding this event, which could significantly impact the division’s future and Horiguchi’s legacy.
