LAS VEGAS – There’s a lot going on at the top of the UFC flyweight division: a former champion deserving of an immediate title rematch, multiple top contenders waiting on the wings, and an unclear timeline. This can stress many, especially if there’s skin in the game, but not Kyoji Horiguchi.
Now back in the UFC, Horiguchi (35-5 MMA, 8-2 UFC), a former Bellator and RIZIN champion, is on the cusp of title contention at 125 pounds. He’s one of the bigger and more respected names in the division, and he has the opportunity this Saturday to be 2-0 since returning to the promotion. Horiguchi takes on top contender Amir Albazi (17-2 MMA, 5-1 UFC) in the co-main event of UFC Fight Night 266 (Paramount+), which takes place Saturday at the Meta APEX.
Horiguchi’s potential shot at gold depends on much more than this next result. Alexandre Pantoja‘s recovery and UFC’s willingness to give him an immediate title shot after his freak injury, Manel Kape and Tatsuro Taira’s standing in the contender line are just a few of the factors in play. Yet, despite the unknowns, Horiguchi remains calm.
“I don’t give a sh*t,” Horiguchi responded with a laugh when asked at the UFC Fight Night 266 media day if he’s worried about his potential title shot being delayed.
Horiguchi wants a shot at the champion Joshua Van, but he’d also be happy to see his teammate Pantoja get his rematch.
“Of course, he can do it, or I get the belt fast, and then he challenges me. That’s a good story. I want to do that.”
It’s not often that you see two teammates be willing to fight each other, all while also keeping a friendly atmosphere. Horiguchi is adamant about wanting to fight the Brazilian, as he wants to prove he’s the best in the world.
“Which one is the strongest? Which one is the best in the world in flyweight?” Horiguchi said. “In training, it’s a little fake, that’s why I want to show everybody who’s the best.”
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Kyoji Horiguchi not stressed over UFC flyweight title picture