At UFC Vegas 113, Kyoji Horiguchi returned to the octagon to take on Amir Albazi, who was making his comeback after more than a year away from competition. The matchup featured Horiguchi, known as The Karate Kid in tribute to the late MMA legend Norifumi Kid Yamamoto, showcasing his skills against Albazi in a pivotal flyweight bout.
Early Rounds Marked by Tactical Exchanges and Physical Pressure
The fight began with Horiguchi using his speed advantage, holding Albazi against the cage and landing knees to his opponent’s legs. Despite his efforts, Horiguchi was unable to take Albazi down, and Albazi managed to escape the clinch. A powerful right hand from Horiguchi followed, initiating a heavy exchange. Though Albazi landed a punch that briefly knocked Horiguchi off balance, the Japanese veteran quickly recovered while Albazi moved to press the fight back against the fence.
In the second round, Albazi resumed his strategy of driving Horiguchi against the cage but was quickly outmaneuvered. Horiguchi countered with a series of three consecutive strikes, visibly affecting Albazi who sustained damage near his right temple and forehead. Throughout the round, Horiguchi’s speed and volume in striking outpaced Albazi, forcing the latter to clinch defensively in the final minute without securing any takedowns.
Final Round Sees Horiguchi Maintain Control Despite Albazi’s Efforts
Horiguchi opened the third with a jumping knee, which allowed Albazi to initiate a body lock, though no takedown was completed. The Japanese fighter broke free and went back on the offensive as Albazi showed signs of being overwhelmed. Despite taking the fight back to the cage, Albazi had sustained noticeable bleeding and was unable to mount a critical finishing attack, while Horiguchi maintained consistent pressure throughout.
Victory Secured and Future Aspirations for Horiguchi
With this win, Horiguchi achieved his second victory since rejoining the UFC after notable runs in Bellator and RIZIN, where he captured titles. Following his unanimous decision victory over Amir Albazi, scored 30-27, 30-27, and 29-28, Horiguchi expressed interest in a title fight against the current flyweight champion, Joshua Van.
The Fight’s Impact on Flyweight Division Prospects
Kyoji Horiguchi’s commanding performance against Amir Albazi at UFC Vegas 113 reinforces his position as a leading contender in the flyweight division. His blend of speed, technique, and resilience demonstrated throughout the bout highlights his readiness to challenge for the flyweight championship. Meanwhile, Albazi’s return was marked by resilience but also visible difficulties in matching Horiguchi’s pace and power, suggesting he may need further adjustments before rising in the division’s ranks.
