Kyoji Horiguchi, a top Japanese MMA fighter, is returning to the UFC with a huge goal. On March 30, 2025, at RIZIN 50 in Japan, the 34-year-old revealed he’s leaving his RIZIN flyweight title behind to take on the octagon again. He’s set his sights on making history as the first Japanese fighter to win a UFC championship belt. His announcement marks a bold step after years of success outside the promotion.
In his first UFC run from 2013 to 2016, Horiguchi went 7-1, losing only to Demetrious Johnson in a title fight. He left on a three-fight win streak, then joined RIZIN and posted a 14-1 record with one no-contest.
“I’m going to the UFC,” Horiguchi said at RIZIN 50. “I’m going to become the first Japanese UFC champion.”
He won titles in RIZIN and Bellator, beating fighters like Manel Kape and Sergio Pettis, with his latest victory in December 2024 against Nkazimulo Zulu.
🚨 2 BIG ANNOUNCEMENTS! 🚨
1️⃣ RIZIN Flyweight Champion, Kyoji Horiguchi, will vacate the title and go to the UFC.
(continued) pic.twitter.com/irhoyQZmmQ
— RIZIN.tv (@RIZINTV_) March 30, 2025
Back to the Octagon with a Goal
Horiguchi trains at American Top Team in Florida, alongside UFC flyweight champ Alexandre Pantoja. His last UFC run showed he can compete at the top level, and he’s returning with more experience. The flyweight division is active, with fights like UFC Mexico on March 29, 2025, featuring Brandon Moreno and Steve Erceg. Horiguchi wants to join that mix. RIZIN will hold a grand prix to crown a new flyweight champ after his exit.
With a 34-5 record, Horiguchi brings a strong resume and a clear plan. No fight date or opponent is set for his UFC return, but his words at RIZIN 50 have sparked talk. He’s determined to be Japan’s first UFC champ, a mission he’s chasing in 2025.
