Kyoji Horiguchi is on fire, and the MMA world is taking notice. After a dominant performance at UFC Vegas 113, where he dismantled Amir Albazi, the question on everyone’s mind is: Is Horiguchi finally poised to reclaim the flyweight throne? But here’s where it gets controversial—while many believe he’s earned another shot, others argue he’ll need to prove himself against even tougher competition. Let’s dive in.
In his second UFC stint, Kyoji Horiguchi, affectionately known as ‘The Karate Kid,’ delivered a masterclass in precision and control during Saturday’s main event. His unanimous decision victory over Albazi wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. Heading into the fight, Horiguchi was already ranked No. 3 in the MMA Fighting Global Rankings, but this performance undoubtedly solidifies his position as a top contender for the flyweight title. And this is the part most people miss: Horiguchi’s evolution since his first UFC run is undeniable. After losing to Demetrious Johnson in 2015, he went on to dominate in Japan, securing titles in both the 125-pound and 135-pound divisions. Now, at 35, he’s back with a vengeance.
The pros are buzzing. Bantamweight standout Merab Dvalishvili took to Twitter to declare, ‘Wow, what a performance by Kyoji Horiguchi. He’s going to get that flyweight belt. Congratulations.’ But is it really that straightforward? While Horiguchi’s skill is undeniable, the flyweight division is stacked with talent. Does he deserve a title shot next, or should he face another top contender first? That’s the debate sparking in the MMA community.
Horiguchi’s journey is a testament to resilience and growth. His first UFC run ended in heartbreak, but his success in Japan proved he’s a force to be reckoned with. Now, with the MMA world watching, the question remains: Can he finally bring home the UFC flyweight belt? Or will history repeat itself? One thing’s for sure—this is a conversation that’s far from over. What do you think? Is Horiguchi ready for the title, or does he need one more test? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
