The Flyweight Future is Now: Horiguchi, Ulanbekov, and a Division on the Rise
The UFC’s 125-pound flyweight division is poised for a dramatic shakeup, and the next few months will be pivotal. While often overshadowed by larger weight classes, flyweight is quietly building a compelling narrative of veteran resurgence and rising Dagestani grappling prowess – a combination that promises explosive fights and unpredictable outcomes. This isn’t just about individual matchups; it’s about a division rapidly defining its next generation of contenders.
Horiguchi’s Last Stand: A Champion’s Heartbeat Remains
Kyoji Horiguchi, a name synonymous with dynamic skill and relentless competition, finds himself at a critical juncture. Despite being in his mid-30s, Horiguchi continues to defy expectations, proving that experience and adaptability can overcome the physical demands of the sport. His resume speaks for itself: a near-win against Demetrious Johnson, victories over Manel Kape, Sergio Pettis, and others. This weekend’s bout against Tagir Ulanbekov isn’t merely a fight; it’s a statement. Can Horiguchi, a former title challenger, reclaim his place among the elite?
The key to Horiguchi’s longevity lies in his well-rounded skillset. He’s not a one-dimensional fighter, capable of striking, grappling, and transitioning seamlessly between both. This versatility will be crucial against Ulanbekov, whose grappling-heavy style presents a unique challenge. A win here wouldn’t just be a victory; it would signal that Horiguchi’s championship aspirations are far from extinguished.
Ulanbekov: The Nurmagomedov Lineage Continues to Dominate
Tagir Ulanbekov represents the latest wave of Dagestani fighters making their mark on the UFC. Trained in the lineage of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Ulanbekov brings a suffocating grappling game and relentless pressure that has proven difficult for opponents to handle. His six wins in seven UFC fights demonstrate his rapid ascent and the effectiveness of this renowned training system. The question isn’t whether Ulanbekov *can* win, but *how* he will impose his will on Horiguchi.
The success of fighters like Ulanbekov highlights a broader trend: the increasing influence of Dagestani grappling on the global MMA landscape. This isn’t simply about wrestling; it’s about a holistic approach to combat that emphasizes control, pressure, and relentless pursuit of a finish. MMA Fighting’s analysis details the systematic approach to fighter development that fuels this dominance.
Flyweight’s Packed Schedule: A Contender’s Gauntlet
The flyweight division isn’t just about Horiguchi and Ulanbekov. The remainder of 2025 promises a series of high-stakes matchups that will shape the title picture. Alex Perez vs. Asu Almabayev, a title bout at UFC 323, and Brandon Royval’s clash with Manel Kape all carry significant implications. This concentrated schedule creates a unique opportunity for fighters to rapidly climb the rankings and establish themselves as legitimate contenders.
The Rise of Almabayev and Royval: New Blood in the Division
Fighters like Asu Almabayev and Brandon Royval represent the new generation of flyweight talent. Almabayev’s aggressive striking and Royval’s relentless pace offer a contrast to the more technical styles of established veterans. Their upcoming fights will be crucial tests, determining whether they can consistently compete at the highest level. The depth of talent in the flyweight division is arguably at its highest point in years.
Beyond the Result: Almakhan’s Debut as a Paradigm Shift
Bekzat Almakhan’s recent debut against Umar Nurmagomedov, despite a loss on the scorecards, offered a fascinating glimpse into a potential shift in strategy. Almakhan, stepping in on short notice, immediately engaged Nurmagomedov, landing significant strikes and even dropping him early in the fight. While Nurmagomedov ultimately controlled the bout through grappling, Almakhan’s aggressive approach forced him to wrestle – a notable deviation from his usual striking-focused game plan. This demonstrates that even against highly touted prospects, a proactive and aggressive strategy can disrupt their rhythm and create opportunities.
This fight underscores a growing trend: the importance of performance over pure results. In a sport often judged solely on win-loss records, Almakhan’s debut showed that a compelling performance can elevate a fighter’s profile and create future opportunities, even in defeat.
The flyweight division is entering a period of intense competition and exciting possibilities. Horiguchi’s fight against Ulanbekov is just the beginning. With a packed schedule and a rising wave of talent, the next few months will determine the future of this often-overlooked, yet increasingly compelling, weight class. What are your predictions for the flyweight division? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
