Kyoji Horiguchi is set to return to the UFC after successful stints in RIZIN and Bellator, and his teammate Alexandre Pantoja, who credits Horiguchi for his own success, is open to defending his flyweight title against him if Horiguchi achieves a winning streak.
SÃO PAULO — Kyoji Horiguchi’s making a comeback to the UFC after reigning as champ in both RIZIN and Bellator. His teammate, Alexandre Pantoja, is open to defending his flyweight title against him someday.
The UFC hasn’t pinned down a date or opponent for Horiguchi’s return yet. Pantoja imagines a future face-off with his American Top Team partner if Horiguchi racks up some wins.
“We’ve got like 100 fighters at ATT,” Pantoja shared with MMA Fighting. “Teammates are always squaring off. But, Kyoji helped me snag this belt. Without him, who knows if I’d even have had the shot.”
“And whenever I can, I thank him. If we fight for the belt, it’d be an honor. Only for the belt though. It’d be like a gift, sparring with Kyoji is already a treat,” Pantoja added.
Horiguchi’s next UFC bout is set, but Pantoja kept mum on the details. As for his own journey, after defending his title three times, he’s ready for whatever comes next.
“I love my division because everyone gets a shot,” Pantoja said. “I’ve beaten top contenders like Royval and Moreno multiple times. It’s exciting not knowing who’s next.”
Merab Dvalishvili will defend his bantamweight title soon, and Pantoja once considered chasing double gold. Now he’s focused on his division and eyes UFC 317 for his next challenge.
“My goal? Win my next fight,” Pantoja stated. “I’m not feeling like the world’s best right now, but once that contract’s signed, I’ll aim to be the champion again.”