Alexandre Pantoja could soon have a new challenger for his UFC flyweight title, as the promotion is reportedly on the verge of re-signing a former contender to shake up the division.
Pantoja defended his 125-pound title at UFC 310 last December, securing a dominant second-round submission win over promotional debutant and former RIZIN FF bantamweight champion Kai Asakura.
According to veteran MMA journalist Ariel Helwani, the UFC is now reportedly "very close" to finalizing a deal to bring back Kyoji Horiguchi, marking his return to the promotion after nine years.
Helwani reported that the UFC is in active discussions to schedule Horiguchi vs. Tagir Ulanbekov for a potential June clash, possibly at a Fight Night event that could mark the promotion’s historic debut in Azerbaijan.
"The Typhoon" spent nearly four years on the UFC roster, compiling a decent 7-1 record. His lone defeat in the Octagon came at UFC 186 in April 2015, where he challenged MMA legend Demetrious Johnson for the flyweight title, only to suffer a last-second submission loss.
The 34-year-old Japanese powerhouse left the UFC on a three-fight win streak before signing with RIZIN FF, where he first captured the bantamweight title. He then had a brief stint in Bellator MMA, securing championship gold there as well. Upon returning to RIZIN, he cemented his legacy by claiming the flyweight belt.
While it remains uncertain whether Horiguchi will need multiple fights or earn an immediate shot at the UFC flyweight title in his potential return, one thing is clear: he’s no stranger to the reigning champion. As a longtime training partner of " The Cannibal's" at American Top Team, Horiguchi is already well-versed in the champion’s skill set.
"The Typhoon" last stepped into the ring at RIZIN 49: Decade in December, where he showcased his elite skills with a dominant unanimous decision victory over Nkazimulo Zulu
Horiguchi boasts a impressive professional record of 35-5, with 15 wins by knockout and five by submission. Currently riding a six-fight unbeaten streak, the Japanese standout hasn’t tasted defeat since April 2022, when he dropped a unanimous decision to Patchy Mix at Bellator 279.