KYOJI HORIGUCHI

Hailing from Japan, Kyoji Horiguchi developed his foundational skills in Shotokan Karate before ascending to prominence as a champion in Shooto, Rizin, and Bellator. Throughout his lengthy career, he has showcased dynamic agility while competing across the flyweight and bantamweight classes. After establishing his reputation as an elite combatant through victories over opponents such as Hiromasa Ougikubo, Kai Asakura, and Darrion Caldwell, he transitioned between organizations before commencing his second tenure with the UFC in 2025. He trains with the American Top Team camp, relying on a diverse arsenal of sharp striking maneuvers and submission techniques to overcome his rivals.

Entering the August 2026 event, Horiguchi holds an overall professional record of 36-6-0 with one no-contest. His recent activity shows a mix of results across his five previous appearances. He earned a unanimous decision against Sergio Pettis in mid-2024, followed by a victory over Nkazimulo Zulu. He subsequently finished Tagir Ulanbekov via rear-naked choke in November 2025 and secured a decision win over Amir Albazi in February 2026. Most recently, he suffered a TKO defeat against Manel Kape in June 2026.