COCONUT CREEK, Fla. – Kyoji Horiguchi is again within the UFC and there’s just one factor on his thoughts.
A former Bellator and RIZIN champion, Horiguchi (34-5 MMA, 7-1 UFC) need to add UFC gold to his trophy case.
“I wished to return to the UFC all the time. Each time, I used to be occupied with that.” Horiguchi instructed MMA Junkie at American Prime Group on Tuesday. “I must get the belt. However my good friend has a belt. It’s going to be a very good combat.”
Horiguchi, 34, returns June 21 in Baku, Azerbaijan vs. Tagir Ulanbekov (16-2 MMA, 5-1 UFC). It’ll mark his first UFC combat since a November 2016 victory over Ali Bagautinov. His solely loss within the promotion was a failed title bid within the UFC 186 most important occasion in opposition to Demetrious Johnson in April 2015.
“I do know each state of affairs (now),” Horiguchi mentioned, when requested about how he’s modified since that combat one decade in the past. “I’ve improved so much. I’d prefer to strive that method within the UFC.”
Whereas it’s but to be introduced by the UFC, a rumored title combat between Alexandre Pantoja and Kai Kara-France appears to be subsequent.
Horiguchi and Pantoja (29-5 MMA, 13-3 UFC) are very long time coaching companions at ATT. In accordance with Horiguchi, the 2 fighters aren’t against having to combat each other, nevertheless. Their dwelling gymnasium, which is the coaching dwelling of dozens of energetic UFC and PFL fighters, has been via related eventualities many instances earlier than.
“Yeah (we’re) fighters and associates,” Horiguchi mentioned. “Pals could make good cash. It’s going to be good. If we resolve to combat, perhaps (we practice) in separate rooms with somewhat bit extra particular coaching.”
Horiguchi has competed each at flyweight and bantamweight all through his profession. Proper now, 125 kilos is the one division in his plans, nevertheless.
“I must get the belt, so flyweight,” Horiguchi mentioned. “I’m undecided. Proper now, I’m targeted on flyweight.”
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