Kyoji Horiguchi is on fire, and the MMA world is taking notice. His dominant performance at UFC Vegas 113 has everyone asking: Is he the next flyweight champion? In a thrilling main event, 'The Karate Kid' left no doubt, delivering a masterclass against Amir Albazi that had fans and fighters alike in awe. But here's where it gets controversial—could this be the performance that finally secures him a long-awaited title shot? Let’s dive in.
Horiguchi’s victory wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. Ranked No. 3 in the MMA Fighting Global Rankings heading into the fight, he not only solidified his position but also made a compelling case for being the top contender. His striking precision, relentless pressure, and tactical brilliance left Albazi bloodied and battered, earning him a lopsided decision victory. And this is the part most people miss—Horiguchi’s evolution since his first UFC run is undeniable.
After falling short against Demetrious Johnson in 2015 for the flyweight belt, Horiguchi went on to dominate in Japan, capturing titles at both 125 and 135 pounds. Now, at 35, he’s back in the UFC with a renewed sense of purpose. His peers are convinced—bantamweight star Merab Dvalishvili tweeted, ‘Wow, what a performance by Kyoji Horiguchi. He’s going to get that flyweight belt. Congratulations.’ But is the UFC ready to give him another shot? That’s the million-dollar question.
Here’s the bold take: Horiguchi’s experience, combined with his recent dominance, makes him a more dangerous contender than ever before. But not everyone agrees. Some argue that the flyweight division is stacked, and he’ll need to prove himself against even tougher competition. What do you think? Is Horiguchi the rightful heir to the flyweight throne, or does he still have something to prove? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments below. One thing’s for sure—Kyoji Horiguchi is a force to be reckoned with, and his journey is far from over.
