UFC flyweight contender Tatsuro Taira, who remains undefeated, is eager to fight at the Sphere arena and hopes a victory over Brandon Royval at UFC Vegas 98 will position him for a title shot against champion Alexandre Pantoja.
Like everyone who saw UFC 306 at the Sphere, flyweight contender Tatsuro Taira was in awe of the grand spectacle that celebrated Mexican Independence Day. It was a night to remember.
The show cost over $20 million to produce. UFC CEO Dana White made it his personal mission to create an unforgettable experience at the $2.3 billion arena in Las Vegas. Thanks to the UFC’s contract with MGM, White has said the card at Sphere is a “one and done.” However, Taira still dreams of seeing the UFC host an event there dedicated to Japan.
“That would definitely be a dream,” Taira told MMA Fighting. “Whether it’s a title fight or I’m defending my title, presenting Japanese MMA history at the Sphere would be incredible.”
Given martial arts’ deep roots in Japan, it’s hard not to imagine such an event being anything but spectacular. The idea is enticing.
Taira admits he’d do just about anything to fight on any UFC card at Sphere, even if it’s not themed around Japan. “It was amazing,” he said. “The whole event was so impressive. If they come back next year, I want to be on that card.”
But first things first: Taira needs to handle business at UFC Vegas 98 against former title challenger Brandon Royval. It’s a big match for him.
Nothing is promised, yet Taira believes defeating Royval could put him in title contention. Especially since reigning champion Alexandre Pantoja doesn’t have his next opponent lined up.
“Obviously, I’m hoping for a title fight after this,” Taira said. “It’ll be a good matchup against Pantoja. First, focus on Royval, then aim for Pantoja.”
Through 16 fights, Taira remains undefeated with a 6-0 record in the UFC and four finishes. Impressive stats.
He aims to extend that streak to 17 this weekend. Unlike some fighters who shy away from discussing their unblemished records, Taira embraces it.
“I’m very proud of being undefeated,” he said. “Yes, it adds pressure, but that pressure brought me here.”
For Taira, every fight is a new challenge—a chance to maintain his perfect record and eventually claim the championship belt as an undefeated fighter.
When it comes to facing Royval, Taira was thrilled when he got the call. This fight brings him closer to his championship dreams and offers an exciting challenge.
Royval is known for being one of the most entertaining fighters in the UFC roster. His style excites Taira because it promises an exhilarating match-up.
“Royval is definitely a finisher,” Taira said. “His stamina and constant hunt for moments make him top-level in our division.”
Excited about fighting the No. 1 ranked flyweight after his last bout against Alex Perez, Taira is ready for what’s next.