Rising fighters are taking center stage at the UFC Qatar event, highlighting the competitive nature of the 125-pound weight class. Key athletes are set to make an impact, showcasing their skills against formidable opponents.
Horiguchi Aims for Contender Status
Kyoji Horiguchi, a prominent figure in the UFC, remains an exceptional talent as he prepares for a crucial fight against Tagir Ulanbekov. The American Top Team representative looks to solidify his position in the flyweight division.
Horiguchi has an impressive track record, competing against elite fighters, including a tough championship bout with Demetrious Johnson at UFC 186. He holds notable victories over top competitors like Manel Kape and Sergio Pettis. Now in his mid-30s, Horiguchi continues to demonstrate his skill and resilience.
Ulanbekov’s Winning Streak
Horiguchi faces Tagir Ulanbekov, a fighter who has shown significant promise in the octagon. The ranked Russian has achieved four consecutive victories and won six out of seven fights since joining the UFC. Ulanbekov is known for his grappling prowess, often attributed to the training lineage of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov.
Upcoming Matches Highlight Flyweight Division
The flyweight division will be at the forefront in the latter part of 2025, with several key matchups scheduled:
- Alex Perez vs. Asu Almabayev on the main card this weekend
- UFC 323 featuring a title bout and another Top 10 clash
- Brandon Royval taking on Kape in the year’s final bout
A victory for Horiguchi against Ulanbekov could establish him as a legitimate contender, amplifying the excitement surrounding the flyweight fights.
Almakhan’s Impressive Debut
Bekzat Almakhan also stands out with his recent UFC debut. Stepping in on short notice for a match against Umar Nurmagomedov on March 2, 2024, Almakhan arrived with an impressive eight-fight winning streak.
In just 30 seconds into the bout, Almakhan landed a significant strike that shook Nurmagomedov, forcing the undefeated rising star to resort to grappling for the remainder of the fight. This performance highlighted Almakhan’s aggressive fighting style and set a promising tone for his future in the UFC.
Conclusion
The UFC Qatar event promises to be a pivotal moment for emerging fighters like Horiguchi and Almakhan. Their performances will not only determine the outcome of their respective bouts but also shape the dynamics of the flyweight division in the coming years.
