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{{Infobox martial artist
{{Infobox martial artist
| name = Kyoji Horiguchi
| name = Kyoji Horiguchi
| image = Kyoji Horiguchi 2017.jpg
| image = KyojiHoriguchi.jpg
| image_size =
| image_size =
| alt =
| alt =
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| weight_kg =
| weight_kg =
| weight_footnote =
| weight_footnote =
| weight_class = [[Bantamweight (MMA)|Bantamweight]] <br/> [[Flyweight (MMA)|Flyweight]]
| weight_class = [[Bantamweight (MMA)|Bantamweight]] <br /> [[Flyweight (MMA)|Flyweight]]
| reach = 66 in<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/event/UFC186/printFightCard|title=Fight Card - UFC 186 Johnson vs. Horiguchi|publisher=UFC.com|access-date=April 28, 2015}}</ref>
| reach = 66 in<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/event/UFC186/printFightCard|title=Fight Card - UFC 186 Johnson vs. Horiguchi|publisher=UFC.com|access-date=April 28, 2015}}</ref>
| reach_footnote =
| reach_footnote =
| style = [[Shotokan Karate]], [[Kickboxing]], [[Shootfighting]]
| style = [[Shotokan Karate]], [[Kickboxing]], [[Shootfighting]]
| stance =
| stance =
| fighting_out_of = [[Coconut Creek, Florida]], {{nowrap|United States}}
| fighting_out_of = [[Coconut Creek, Florida]], U.S.
| team = KRAZY BEE (2009–2015)<ref>{{cite web |title=KRAZY BEE / 12 選手 |url=http://www.shooto-mma.com/fighters/?pg=fighters&gymid=13 |website=shooto-mma.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> <br/> [[American Top Team]] (2015–present)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sherdog.com/news/articles/5-Things-You-Might-Not-Know-About-Kyoji-Horiguchi-147583|title=5 Things You Might Not Know About Kyoji Horiguchi|date=December 29, 2018|author=Guy Portman|work=[[Sherdog]]}}</ref>
| team = KRAZY BEE (2009–2015)<ref>{{cite web |title=KRAZY BEE / 12 選手 |url=http://www.shooto-mma.com/fighters/?pg=fighters&gymid=13 |website=shooto-mma.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> <br /> [[American Top Team]] (2015–present)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sherdog.com/news/articles/5-Things-You-Might-Not-Know-About-Kyoji-Horiguchi-147583|title=5 Things You Might Not Know About Kyoji Horiguchi|date=December 29, 2018|author=Guy Portman|work=[[Sherdog]]}}</ref>
| trainer = [[Norifumi Yamamoto]]<br/>[[Mike Thomas Brown]]
| trainer = [[Norifumi Yamamoto]]<br />[[Mike Thomas Brown]]
| rank = A-Class [[Shooto|Shootist]] <br/> 2nd degree black belt in [[Shotokan]] [[Karate]]<ref name=UFCprofile>{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/fighter/Kyoji-Horiguchi|title=Kyoji Horiguchi - Official UFC Fighter Profile|publisher=UFC.com|access-date=January 15, 2015}}</ref>
| rank = A-Class [[Shooto|Shootist]] <br /> 2nd degree black belt in [[Shotokan]] [[Karate]]<ref name=UFCprofile>{{cite web|url=http://www.ufc.com/fighter/Kyoji-Horiguchi|title=Kyoji Horiguchi - Official UFC Fighter Profile|publisher=UFC.com|access-date=January 15, 2015}}</ref>
| wrestling =
| wrestling =
| years_active = 2010–present
| years_active = 2010–present
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| kickbox_nc =
| kickbox_nc =
| mma_kowin = 15
| mma_kowin = 15
| mma_subwin = 4
| mma_subwin = 5
| mma_decwin = 12
| mma_decwin = 13
| mma_dqwin =
| mma_dqwin =
| mma_otherwin =
| mma_otherwin =
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| footnotes =
| footnotes =
| updated =
| updated =
|native_name=堀口恭司}}
}}


{{Nihongo|'''Kyoji Horiguchi'''|{{Lang-ja|堀口 恭司}}|Horiguchi Kyōji|born October 12, 1990}} is a Japanese [[mixed martial artist]]<ref>{{cite news|title= Kyoji Horiguchi Smashes Tetsu Suzuki at Shooto 2012 3rd Round |work= [[Sherdog]]|date= March 10, 2012|url= http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Kyoji-Horiguchi-Smashes-Tetsu-Suzuki-at-Shooto-2012-3rd-Round-41009|access-date=2012-03-18}}</ref> currently competing in [[Bellator MMA]] and [[Rizin Fighting Federation|Rizin FF]]<ref>{{cite news|title= Horiguchi signs with (sic) Rizin Fighting|publisher= FanSided.com|author= Raphael Garcia|date= February 21, 2017|url= http://fansided.com/2017/02/21/kyoji-horiguchi-signs-rizin-fighting/|access-date= June 29, 2017}}</ref> in the [[Flyweight (MMA)|Flyweight]] division. He is the former bantamweight champion in both organizations. As of July 30, 2023, he is #5 in the [[Bellator MMA Rankings#Bantamweight|Bellator Bantamweight Rankings]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Bellator Rankings|url=https://www.bellator.com/ranking|access-date=2021-06-16|website=www.bellator.com}}</ref>
{{Nihongo|'''Kyoji Horiguchi'''|{{Langx|ja|堀口 恭司}}|Horiguchi Kyōji|born October 12, 1990}} is a Japanese [[mixed martial artist]]<ref>{{cite news|title= Kyoji Horiguchi Smashes Tetsu Suzuki at Shooto 2012 3rd Round |work= [[Sherdog]]|date= March 10, 2012|url= http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Kyoji-Horiguchi-Smashes-Tetsu-Suzuki-at-Shooto-2012-3rd-Round-41009|access-date=2012-03-18}}</ref> currently competing in [[Rizin Fighting Federation|Rizin FF]]<ref>{{cite news|title= Horiguchi signs with (sic) Rizin Fighting|publisher= FanSided.com|author= Raphael Garcia|date= February 21, 2017|url= http://fansided.com/2017/02/21/kyoji-horiguchi-signs-rizin-fighting/|access-date= June 29, 2017}}</ref> in the [[Flyweight (MMA)|Flyweight]] division, where he is the current [[Rizin Fighting Federation#Flyweight Championship|RIZIN Flyweight Champion]] and former [[Rizin Fighting Federation#Bantamweight Championship|RIZIN Bantamweight Championship]]. He is also the former [[List of Bellator champions#Bantamweight World Championship|Bellator Bantamweight World Championship]].


A professional competitor since 2010, Horiguchi formerly competed in the [[Ultimate Fighting Championship]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Kyoji Horiguchi |url=https://www.ufc.com/athlete/kyoji-horiguchi |website=ufc.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> and is the former [[Shooto]] [[List of Shooto champions#Bantamweight Championship|Bantamweight Champion]].<ref>{{cite web |title=堀口 恭司 |url=http://www.shooto-mma.com/fighters/?id=185 |website=shooto-mma.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> He graduated from Sakushin Gakuin High School in [[Utsunomiya]], [[Tochigi Prefecture|Tochigi]], [[Japan]].<ref>{{cite web |title=「UFCで勝てば億万長者ですよ！」堀口恭司 釣りと格闘技インタビュー |url=https://ch.nicovideo.jp/dropkick/blomaga/ar400063 |website=ch.nicovideo.jp |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>
A professional competitor since 2010, Horiguchi formerly competed in the [[Ultimate Fighting Championship]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Kyoji Horiguchi |url=https://www.ufc.com/athlete/kyoji-horiguchi |website=ufc.com |date=14 September 2018 |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> and is the former [[Shooto]] [[List of Shooto champions#Bantamweight Championship|Bantamweight Champion]].<ref>{{cite web |title=堀口 恭司 |url=http://www.shooto-mma.com/fighters/?id=185 |website=shooto-mma.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> He graduated from Sakushin Gakuin High School in [[Utsunomiya]], [[Tochigi Prefecture|Tochigi]], [[Japan]].<ref>{{cite web |title=「UFCで勝てば億万長者ですよ！」堀口恭司 釣りと格闘技インタビュー |url=https://ch.nicovideo.jp/dropkick/blomaga/ar400063 |website=ch.nicovideo.jp |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>


==Background==
==Background==
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His biggest victory up to that time would come over the 2009 Rookie Tournament runner-up, Yuta Nezu. Horiguchi's knockout power was on display early, knocking out Nezu in the first round. His nickname is The [[Typhoon]].
His biggest victory up to that time would come over the 2009 Rookie Tournament runner-up, Yuta Nezu. Horiguchi's knockout power was on display early, knocking out Nezu in the first round. His nickname is The [[Typhoon]].


Horiguchi took on the former Shooto Bantamweight Champion, [[Masakatsu Ueda]] on January 8, 2012. Ueda controlled most of the bout with his superior grappling, nearly submitting Horiguchi numerous times. He lost by a majority decision.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://mma-japan.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1096:kyoji-horiguchi-falls-to-ueda-full-video-included&catid=52:shooto&Itemid=95=Kyoji Horiguchi Falls to Ueda|publisher=mma-japan.com|access-date=2012-01-18|title=Kyoji Horiguchi Falls to Ueda - Full Video Included|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303200727/http://mma-japan.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1096:kyoji-horiguchi-falls-to-ueda-full-video-included&catid=52:shooto&Itemid=95=Kyoji|archive-date=2016-03-03|url-status=dead}}</ref>
Horiguchi took on the former Shooto Bantamweight Champion, [[Masakatsu Ueda]] on January 8, 2012. Ueda controlled most of the bout with his superior grappling, nearly submitting Horiguchi numerous times. He lost by a majority decision.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://mma-japan.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1096:kyoji-horiguchi-falls-to-ueda-full-video-included&catid=52:shooto&Itemid=95|publisher=MMA-Japan|access-date=2012-01-18|title=Kyoji Horiguchi Falls to Ueda|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120319220113/http://mma-japan.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1096:kyoji-horiguchi-falls-to-ueda-full-video-included&catid=52:shooto&Itemid=95|archive-date=2012-03-19|url-status=dead}}</ref>


Horiguchi captured the Shooto Bantamweight Championship on March 16, 2013, when he defeated [[Hiromasa Ougikubo]] submitting him in the second round by [[rear-naked choke]].<ref>{{cite news|last=Marchand|first=Dean|title=Bantamweight Prospect Kyoji Horiguchi Captures Gold, Caol Uno Wins at Shooto '2nd Round 2013'|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Bantamweight-Prospect-Kyoji-Horiguchi-Captures-Gold-Caol-Uno-Wins-at-Shooto-2nd-Round-2013-50959|access-date=19 March 2013|newspaper=[[Sherdog]]|date=16 March 2013}}</ref>
Horiguchi captured the Shooto Bantamweight Championship on March 16, 2013, when he defeated [[Hiromasa Ougikubo]] submitting him in the second round by [[rear-naked choke]].<ref>{{cite news|last=Marchand|first=Dean|title=Bantamweight Prospect Kyoji Horiguchi Captures Gold, Caol Uno Wins at Shooto '2nd Round 2013'|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Bantamweight-Prospect-Kyoji-Horiguchi-Captures-Gold-Caol-Uno-Wins-at-Shooto-2nd-Round-2013-50959|access-date=19 March 2013|newspaper=[[Sherdog]]|date=16 March 2013}}</ref>


On June 22, Horiguchi fought Pancrase Bantamweight Champion, [[Shintaro Ishiwatari]], at [[Vale Tudo Japan|VTJ 2nd]], where Horiguchi acted as a Shooto representative. The two engaged in a competitive, back and forth fight. Many outlets had Ishiwatari leading on the scorecards heading into the final round. Horiguchi rallied early in the fifth round, landing a barrage of punches on Ishiwatari to force the stoppage and defend his title.<ref>{{cite web |title=【VTJ】修斗vsパンクラス王者対決は堀口が最終ラウンドで劇的KO勝ち |url=https://efight.jp/result-20130622_18742 |website=efight.jp |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>
On June 22, Horiguchi fought Pancrase Bantamweight Champion, [[Shintaro Ishiwatari]], at [[Vale Tudo Japan|VTJ 2nd]], where Horiguchi acted as a Shooto representative. The two engaged in a competitive, back and forth fight. Many outlets had Ishiwatari leading on the scorecards heading into the final round. Horiguchi rallied early in the fifth round, landing a barrage of punches on Ishiwatari to force the stoppage and defend his title.<ref>{{cite web |title=【VTJ】修斗vsパンクラス王者対決は堀口が最終ラウンドで劇的KO勝ち |url=https://efight.jp/result-20130622_18742 |website=efight.jp |date=22 June 2013 |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>


===Ultimate Fighting Championship===
===Ultimate Fighting Championship===
Horiguchi made his promotional debut against [[Dustin Pague]] on October 19, 2013, at [[UFC 166]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.asianmma.com/?p=7415|title=Kyoji Horiguchi UFC Bound – Faces Dustin Pague At UFC 166|publisher=asianmma.com|author=Staff|date=2013-09-13|access-date=2013-09-13|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130920080945/http://www.asianmma.com/?p=7415|archive-date=2013-09-20}}</ref> He was victorious in his debut, winning the fight via TKO in the second round.<ref>{{cite web |title=【UFC】山本"KID"徳郁の愛弟子・堀口がKO勝利デビュー |url=https://efight.jp/result-20131019_23116 |website=efight.jp |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>
Horiguchi made his promotional debut against [[Dustin Pague]] on October 19, 2013, at [[UFC 166]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.asianmma.com/?p=7415|title=Kyoji Horiguchi UFC Bound – Faces Dustin Pague At UFC 166|publisher=asianmma.com|author=Staff|date=2013-09-13|access-date=2013-09-13|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130920080945/http://www.asianmma.com/?p=7415|archive-date=2013-09-20}}</ref> He was victorious in his debut, winning the fight via TKO in the second round.<ref>{{cite web |title=【UFC】山本"KID"徳郁の愛弟子・堀口がKO勝利デビュー |url=https://efight.jp/result-20131019_23116 |website=efight.jp |date=19 October 2013 |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>


Horiguchi was expected to face [[Chris Cariaso]] in a Flyweight bout on February 1, 2014, at [[UFC 169]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2013/11/16/kyoji-horiguchi-drops-to-flyweight-meets-chris-cariaso-at-ufc-169/|title=Kyoji Horiguchi drops to flyweight, meets Chris Cariaso at UFC 169|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|access-date=2013-11-16|date=2013-11-16}}</ref> However, Horiguchi pulled out of the bout citing injury<ref>{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/01/kyoji-horiguchi-drops-off-ufc-169-card/|title=Kyoji Horiguchi drops off UFC 169 card|publisher=MMAjunkie.com|author=Dann Stupp|date=2014-01-15|access-date=2014-01-15}}</ref> and was replaced by WEC veteran Danny Martinez.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/01/danny-martinez-gets-call-for-octagon-debut-at-ufc-169/|title=Danny Martinez gets call for octagon debut at UFC 169|publisher=MMAjunkie.com|author=Dann Stupp|date=2014-01-15|access-date=2014-01-15}}</ref>
Horiguchi was expected to face [[Chris Cariaso]] in a Flyweight bout on February 1, 2014, at [[UFC 169]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2013/11/16/kyoji-horiguchi-drops-to-flyweight-meets-chris-cariaso-at-ufc-169/|title=Kyoji Horiguchi drops to flyweight, meets Chris Cariaso at UFC 169|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|access-date=2013-11-16|date=2013-11-16}}</ref> However, Horiguchi pulled out of the bout citing injury<ref>{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/01/kyoji-horiguchi-drops-off-ufc-169-card/|title=Kyoji Horiguchi drops off UFC 169 card|publisher=MMAjunkie.com|author=Dann Stupp|date=2014-01-15|access-date=2014-01-15}}</ref> and was replaced by WEC veteran Danny Martinez.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/01/danny-martinez-gets-call-for-octagon-debut-at-ufc-169/|title=Danny Martinez gets call for octagon debut at UFC 169|publisher=MMAjunkie.com|author=Dann Stupp|date=2014-01-15|access-date=2014-01-15}}</ref>


Horiguchi faced [[Darrell Montague]] on May 10, 2014, at [[UFC Fight Night 40]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/02/cariaso-smolka-horiguchi-montague-added-to-ufc-fight-night-in-cincinnati/|title=Horoguchi-Montague added to UFC Fight Night in Cincinnati|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Matt Erickson|access-date=2014-02-21|date=2014-02-21}}</ref> He won the fight via unanimous decision.<ref>{{cite web |title=【UFC】山本KIDの愛弟子・堀口が2連勝 |url=https://efight.jp/result-20140510_31150 |website=efight.jp |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>
Horiguchi faced [[Darrell Montague]] on May 10, 2014, at [[UFC Fight Night 40]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/02/cariaso-smolka-horiguchi-montague-added-to-ufc-fight-night-in-cincinnati/|title=Horoguchi-Montague added to UFC Fight Night in Cincinnati|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Matt Erickson|access-date=2014-02-21|date=2014-02-21}}</ref> He won the fight via unanimous decision.<ref>{{cite web |title=【UFC】山本KIDの愛弟子・堀口が2連勝 |url=https://efight.jp/result-20140510_31150 |website=efight.jp |date=10 May 2014 |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>


A rescheduled bout with [[Chris Cariaso]] was expected to take place on September 20, 2014, at [[UFC Fight Night 52]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2014/6/26/5844678/akiyama-yamamoto-and-gomi-return-to-japan-for-sept-20-show|title=Akiyama, Yamamoto, Gomi all set to compete on UFC's Sept. 20 show|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Dave Meltzer|access-date=2014-06-26|date=2014-06-26}}</ref> However, Cariaso was pulled from the bout with Horiguchi in favor of a matchup with current flyweight champion [[Demetrious Johnson (fighter)|Demetrious Johnson]] at [[UFC 178]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/07/champ-demetrious-johnson-faces-chris-cariaso-at-ufc-177|title=Champ Demetrious Johnson faces Chris Cariaso at UFC 177|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|date=2014-07-15|access-date=2014-07-15}}</ref> Horiguchi instead faced Jon Delos Reyes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cagepages.com/2014/08/08/kyoji-horiguchi-faces-jon-delos-reyes-ufc-fight-night-52/|title=Kyoji Horiguchi faces Jon Delos Reyes at UFC Fight Night 52|publisher=cagepages.com|author=Jacob Cooper|date=2014-08-08|access-date=2014-08-08}}</ref> He won the fight via TKO in the first round.
A rescheduled bout with [[Chris Cariaso]] was expected to take place on September 20, 2014, at [[UFC Fight Night 52]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2014/6/26/5844678/akiyama-yamamoto-and-gomi-return-to-japan-for-sept-20-show|title=Akiyama, Yamamoto, Gomi all set to compete on UFC's Sept. 20 show|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Dave Meltzer|access-date=2014-06-26|date=2014-06-26}}</ref> However, Cariaso was pulled from the bout with Horiguchi in favor of a matchup with current flyweight champion [[Demetrious Johnson (fighter)|Demetrious Johnson]] at [[UFC 178]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/07/champ-demetrious-johnson-faces-chris-cariaso-at-ufc-177|title=Champ Demetrious Johnson faces Chris Cariaso at UFC 177|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|date=2014-07-15|access-date=2014-07-15}}</ref> Horiguchi instead faced Jon Delos Reyes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cagepages.com/2014/08/08/kyoji-horiguchi-faces-jon-delos-reyes-ufc-fight-night-52/|title=Kyoji Horiguchi faces Jon Delos Reyes at UFC Fight Night 52|publisher=cagepages.com|author=Jacob Cooper|date=2014-08-08|access-date=2014-08-08}}</ref> He won the fight via TKO in the first round.


Horoguchi faced [[Louis Gaudinot]] on January 3, 2015, at [[UFC 182]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.foxsports.com/ufc/story/flyweight-contenders-kyoji-horiguchi-louis-gaudinot-meet-at-ufc-182-101714|title=Flyweight contenders Kyoji Horiguchi, Louis Gaudinot meet at UFC 182|work=foxsports.com|author=Marc Raimondi|date=2014-10-17|access-date=2014-10-17}}</ref> He won the fight by unanimous decision.<ref>{{cite web |title=【UFC】堀口がUFC無敗記録を「4」に更新 |url=https://efight.jp/result-20150103_116632 |website=efight.jp |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>
Horoguchi faced [[Louis Gaudinot]] on January 3, 2015, at [[UFC 182]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.foxsports.com/ufc/story/flyweight-contenders-kyoji-horiguchi-louis-gaudinot-meet-at-ufc-182-101714|title=Flyweight contenders Kyoji Horiguchi, Louis Gaudinot meet at UFC 182|work=foxsports.com|author=Marc Raimondi|date=2014-10-17|access-date=2014-10-17}}</ref> He won the fight by unanimous decision.<ref>{{cite web |title=【UFC】堀口がUFC無敗記録を「4」に更新 |url=https://efight.jp/result-20150103_116632 |website=efight.jp |date=3 January 2015 |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>


Horiguchi faced Flyweight champion [[Demetrious Johnson]] on April 25, 2015, in the main event at [[UFC 186]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/02/champ-demetrious-johnson-vs-kyoji-horiguchi-is-ufc-186s-new-co-main-event|title=Champ Demetrious Johnson vs. Kyoji Horiguchi is UFC 186's new co-main event|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|date=2015-02-10|access-date=2015-02-10}}</ref> Despite doing well during the first round, Horiguchi lost the otherwise one-sided fight via an armbar submission at 4:59 of the fifth round, resulting in the latest finish in UFC history.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mmamania.com/2015/4/26/8498743/ufc-186-results-demetrious-johnson-dominates-defeats-kyoji-horiguchi-via-last-second-submission|title=UFC 186 results: Demetrious Johnson dominates, submits Kyoji Horiguchi in last second of title fight|publisher=mmamania.com|author=Alex Schlinsky|date=2015-04-26|access-date=2015-04-26}}</ref>
Horiguchi faced Flyweight champion [[Demetrious Johnson]] on April 25, 2015, in the main event at [[UFC 186]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/02/champ-demetrious-johnson-vs-kyoji-horiguchi-is-ufc-186s-new-co-main-event|title=Champ Demetrious Johnson vs. Kyoji Horiguchi is UFC 186's new co-main event|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|date=2015-02-10|access-date=2015-02-10}}</ref> Despite doing well during the first round, Horiguchi lost the otherwise one-sided fight via an armbar submission at 4:59 of the fifth round, resulting in the latest finish in UFC history.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mmamania.com/2015/4/26/8498743/ufc-186-results-demetrious-johnson-dominates-defeats-kyoji-horiguchi-via-last-second-submission|title=UFC 186 results: Demetrious Johnson dominates, submits Kyoji Horiguchi in last second of title fight|publisher=mmamania.com|author=Alex Schlinsky|date=2015-04-26|access-date=2015-04-26}}</ref>
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===Rizin Fighting Federation===
===Rizin Fighting Federation===
[[File:RIZIN.14 KYOJI HORIGUCHI WALKOUT.jpg|thumb|Horiguchi making his walkout in Rizin.]]


In joining RIZIN, Horiguchi says he felt more at home and enjoyed the shows RIZIN put on built around him.<ref name="Blaine Henry"/>
In joining RIZIN, Horiguchi says he felt more at home and enjoyed the shows RIZIN put on built around him.<ref name="Blaine Henry"/>
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On April 16, 2017, Horiguchi made his debut in [[Rizin Fighting Federation]], where he defeated Yuki Motoya by unanimous decision.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2017/2/17/14655314/ufc-flyweight-kyoji-horiguchi-free-agent-rizin-mma-news|title=Flyweight Kyoji Horiguchi is officially a free agent|publisher=bloodyelbow.com|author=Tim Burke|date=2017-02-17|access-date=2017-02-17}}</ref>
On April 16, 2017, Horiguchi made his debut in [[Rizin Fighting Federation]], where he defeated Yuki Motoya by unanimous decision.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2017/2/17/14655314/ufc-flyweight-kyoji-horiguchi-free-agent-rizin-mma-news|title=Flyweight Kyoji Horiguchi is officially a free agent|publisher=bloodyelbow.com|author=Tim Burke|date=2017-02-17|access-date=2017-02-17}}</ref>


Horiguichi next faced [[Hideo Tokoro]] in the first round of the Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix on July 30, 2017, at [[2017 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin World Grand Prix 2017 Opening Round - Part 1|Rizin 6]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Cruz |first1=Guilherme |title=Kyoji Horiguchi vs. Hideo Tokoro among additions to RIZIN's bantamweight GP |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2017/5/24/15684786/kyoji-horiguchi-hideo-tokoro-additions-rizin-bantamweight-gp-mma |website=mmafighting.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> He won the fight via knockout in the first round.
Horiguichi next faced [[Hideo Tokoro]] in the first round of the Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix on July 30, 2017, at [[2017 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin World Grand Prix 2017 Opening Round - Part 1|Rizin 6]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Cruz |first1=Guilherme |title=Kyoji Horiguchi vs. Hideo Tokoro among additions to RIZIN's bantamweight GP |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2017/5/24/15684786/kyoji-horiguchi-hideo-tokoro-additions-rizin-bantamweight-gp-mma |website=mmafighting.com |date=24 May 2017 |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> He won the fight via knockout in the first round.


Horiguchi competed in the rest of the Bantamweight Grand Prix in December 2017, fighting three times over two days. In the quarter-finals, he faced Gabriel Oliviera on December 29, 2017, at [[2017 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin World Grand Prix 2017: 2nd Round|Rizin World Grand Prix 2017: 2nd Round]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Breen |first1=Jordan |title=Rizin Finalizes Bantamweight GP Bracket; Kyoji Horiguchi Faces Unbeaten Gabriel Oliveira on Dec. 29 |url=https://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Rizin-Finalizes-Bantamweight-GP-Bracket-Kyoji-Horiguchi-Faces-Unbeaten-Gabriel-Oliveira-on-Dec-29-128609 |website=sherdog.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> He won the fight via TKO in the first round.<ref>{{cite web |title=Rizin FF 8 Highlights: Kyoji Horiguchi Takes Out Gabriel Oliveira |url=http://fcfighter.com/rizin-ff-8-highlights-kyoji-horiguchi-takes-out-gabriel-oliveira/ |website=fcfighter.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> He advanced to the next round, which was held on December 31, 2017, at [[2017 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin World Grand Prix 2017: 2nd Round|Rizin World Grand Prix 2017: Final Round]]. He faced [[Manel Kape]] in the semi-finals and won via arm-triangle choke submission in the third round.<ref>{{cite web |title=【RIZIN】堀口がバッティングのアクシデント乗り越えケイプに一本勝ち、決勝進出 |url=https://efight.jp/result_s-20171231_276653 |website=efight.jp |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> In the final, he faced [[Shintaro Ishiwatari]] and won via knockout early into the second round to become the inaugural RIZIN Bantamweight Champion.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Carroll |first1=Peter |title=Rizin FF 9 results: Kyoji Horiguchi wins bantamweight GP with one-punch KO |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2017/12/31/16835250/rizin-ff-9-results-kyoji-horiguchi-wins-bantamweight-gp-with-one-punch-ko |website=mmafighting.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>
Horiguchi competed in the rest of the Bantamweight Grand Prix in December 2017, fighting three times over two days. In the quarter-finals, he faced Gabriel Oliviera on December 29, 2017, at [[2017 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin World Grand Prix 2017: 2nd Round|Rizin World Grand Prix 2017: 2nd Round]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Breen |first1=Jordan |title=Rizin Finalizes Bantamweight GP Bracket; Kyoji Horiguchi Faces Unbeaten Gabriel Oliveira on Dec. 29 |url=https://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Rizin-Finalizes-Bantamweight-GP-Bracket-Kyoji-Horiguchi-Faces-Unbeaten-Gabriel-Oliveira-on-Dec-29-128609 |website=sherdog.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> He won the fight via TKO in the first round.<ref>{{cite web |title=Rizin FF 8 Highlights: Kyoji Horiguchi Takes Out Gabriel Oliveira |url=http://fcfighter.com/rizin-ff-8-highlights-kyoji-horiguchi-takes-out-gabriel-oliveira/ |website=fcfighter.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> He advanced to the next round, which was held on December 31, 2017, at [[2017 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin World Grand Prix 2017: 2nd Round|Rizin World Grand Prix 2017: Final Round]]. He faced [[Manel Kape]] in the semi-finals and won via arm-triangle choke submission in the third round.<ref>{{cite web |title=【RIZIN】堀口がバッティングのアクシデント乗り越えケイプに一本勝ち、決勝進出 |url=https://efight.jp/result_s-20171231_276653 |website=efight.jp |date=31 December 2017 |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref> In the final, he faced [[Shintaro Ishiwatari]] and won via knockout early into the second round to become the inaugural RIZIN Bantamweight Champion.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Carroll |first1=Peter |title=Rizin FF 9 results: Kyoji Horiguchi wins bantamweight GP with one-punch KO |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2017/12/31/16835250/rizin-ff-9-results-kyoji-horiguchi-wins-bantamweight-gp-with-one-punch-ko |website=mmafighting.com |date=31 December 2017 |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>


Horiguchi faced fellow UFC veteran [[Ian McCall (fighter)|Ian McCall]] in the main event at [[2018 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 10 - Fukuoka|Rizin 10]] on May 6, 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/ExUFC-Flyweights-Kyoji-Horiguchi-Ian-McCall-Headline-Finalized-Rizin-10-Fight-Card-135481|title=Ex-UFC Flyweights Kyoji Horiguchi, Ian McCall Headline Finalized Rizin 10 Fight Card|publisher=sherdog.com|author=Chris Nelson|date=2018-04-22|access-date=2018-04-22}}</ref> He defeated McCall just 9 seconds into the first round via KO. This was the second fastest stoppage in Rizin history.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Quiles Jr. |first1=Fernando |title=Ian McCall on Loss to Kyoji Horiguchi: "It's Really Embarrassing" |url=https://www.mmanews.com/2018/05/ian-mccall-kyoji-horiguchi-embarrassing/ |website=mmanews.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>
Horiguchi faced fellow UFC veteran [[Ian McCall (fighter)|Ian McCall]] in the main event at [[2018 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 10 - Fukuoka|Rizin 10]] on May 6, 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/ExUFC-Flyweights-Kyoji-Horiguchi-Ian-McCall-Headline-Finalized-Rizin-10-Fight-Card-135481|title=Ex-UFC Flyweights Kyoji Horiguchi, Ian McCall Headline Finalized Rizin 10 Fight Card|publisher=sherdog.com|author=Chris Nelson|date=2018-04-22|access-date=2018-04-22}}</ref> He defeated McCall just 9 seconds into the first round via KO. This was the second fastest stoppage in Rizin history.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Quiles Jr. |first1=Fernando |title=Ian McCall on Loss to Kyoji Horiguchi: "It's Really Embarrassing" |url=https://www.mmanews.com/2018/05/ian-mccall-kyoji-horiguchi-embarrassing/ |website=mmanews.com |date=6 May 2018 |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>


After a 9-second knockout victory, Horiguchi made a quick turnaround to face fellow Japanese champion [[Hiromasa Ougikubo]] in a long-awaited rematch.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2018/5/16/17359788/kyoji-horiguchi-gets-quick-turnaround-faces-tuf-alum-hiromasa-ogikubo-at-rizin-11|title=Kyoji Horiguchi gets quick turnaround, faces TUF alum Hiromasa Ougikubo at Rizin 11 |date=2018-05-16|website=mmafighting.com|last=Raimondi|first=Marc}}</ref> Ogikubo, the current Shooto bantamweight champion, had not lost since he last faced Horiguchi in 2013. Horiguchi won the bout via unanimous decision.<ref>{{cite web |title=堀口恭司、扇久保を返り討ちもＫＯできず笑顔なし「やりづらかった」 |url=https://www.daily.co.jp/ring/2018/07/29/0011492909.shtml |website=daily.co.jp |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>
After a 9-second knockout victory, Horiguchi made a quick turnaround to face fellow Japanese champion [[Hiromasa Ougikubo]] in a long-awaited rematch.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2018/5/16/17359788/kyoji-horiguchi-gets-quick-turnaround-faces-tuf-alum-hiromasa-ogikubo-at-rizin-11|title=Kyoji Horiguchi gets quick turnaround, faces TUF alum Hiromasa Ougikubo at Rizin 11 |date=2018-05-16|website=mmafighting.com|last=Raimondi|first=Marc}}</ref> Ogikubo, the current Shooto bantamweight champion, had not lost since he last faced Horiguchi in 2013. Horiguchi won the bout via unanimous decision.<ref>{{cite web |title=堀口恭司、扇久保を返り討ちもＫＯできず笑顔なし「やりづらかった」 |url=https://www.daily.co.jp/ring/2018/07/29/0011492909.shtml |website=daily.co.jp |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>
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On September 30, 2018, Horiguchi fought Japanese Kickboxer [[Tenshin Nasukawa]] at [[2018 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 13 - Saitama|Rizin 13]] under Rizin Kickboxing rules, and lost by unanimous decision.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2018/09/rizin-ff-13-results-kyogi-horiguchi-edged-out-by-tenshin-nasukawa-prochazka-cruickshank-mma|title=Rizin FF 13 results: Horiguchi edged out by Nasukawa, Prochazka and Cruickshank score violent finishes|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Fernanda Prates|date=2018-09-30|access-date=2018-11-28}}</ref>
On September 30, 2018, Horiguchi fought Japanese Kickboxer [[Tenshin Nasukawa]] at [[2018 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 13 - Saitama|Rizin 13]] under Rizin Kickboxing rules, and lost by unanimous decision.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2018/09/rizin-ff-13-results-kyogi-horiguchi-edged-out-by-tenshin-nasukawa-prochazka-cruickshank-mma|title=Rizin FF 13 results: Horiguchi edged out by Nasukawa, Prochazka and Cruickshank score violent finishes|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Fernanda Prates|date=2018-09-30|access-date=2018-11-28}}</ref>


Horiguchi faced the reigning Bellator Bantamweight champion [[Darrion Caldwell]] for the vacant [[Rizin Fighting Federation#Bantamweight Championship|Rizin Bantamweight Championship]] at [[2018 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 14 - Saitama|Rizin 14]] on December 31, 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mmaweekly.com/bellator-champ-darrion-caldwell-vs-rizin-champ-kyoji-horiguchi-set-for-rizin-14|title=Bellator Champ Darrion Caldwell vs. RIZIN Champ Kyoji Horiguchi Set for RIZIN 14|author=Damon Martin|publisher=mmaweekly.com|date=November 29, 2018}}</ref> He won the fight by submission via a guillotine choke.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Doherty |first1=Dan |title=Bellator 222 Results: Kyoji Horiguchi More Effective, Wins Bantamweight Title Over Darrion Caldwell |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2019/06/14/bellator-222-results-kyoji-horiguchi/ |website=cagesidepress.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>
Horiguchi faced the reigning Bellator Bantamweight champion [[Darrion Caldwell]] for the vacant [[Rizin Fighting Federation#Bantamweight Championship|Rizin Bantamweight Championship]] at [[2018 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 14 - Saitama|Rizin 14]] on December 31, 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mmaweekly.com/bellator-champ-darrion-caldwell-vs-rizin-champ-kyoji-horiguchi-set-for-rizin-14|title=Bellator Champ Darrion Caldwell vs. RIZIN Champ Kyoji Horiguchi Set for RIZIN 14|author=Damon Martin|publisher=mmaweekly.com|date=November 29, 2018}}</ref> He won the fight by submission via a guillotine choke.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Doherty |first1=Dan |title=Bellator 222 Results: Kyoji Horiguchi More Effective, Wins Bantamweight Title Over Darrion Caldwell |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2019/06/14/bellator-222-results-kyoji-horiguchi/ |website=cagesidepress.com |date=15 June 2019 |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>
[[File:KyojiHoriguchi.jpg|thumb|Horiguchi with Bellator and Rizin belts in 2019.]]
[[File:KyojiHoriguchi.jpg|thumb|Horiguchi with Bellator and Rizin belts in 2019.]]


Horiguchi next faced [[Ben Nguyen]] in a 132 pound catchweight bout on April 21, 2019, at [[2019 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 15 - Yokohama|Rizin 15]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://jp.rizinff.com/_ct/17246838|title=【アーカイブ動画】1.31『RIZIN.15』記者会見 - RIZIN FIGHTING FEDERATION（ライジン オフィシャルサイト）|website=jp.rizinff.com|language=ja|access-date=2019-01-31}}</ref> He won the fight via TKO in the first round.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Cunningham |first1=Cillian |title=Kyoji Horiguchi Continues Blistering RIZIN Run With First-Round TKO |url=https://punditarena.com/mma/ccunningham/kyoji-horiguchi-tkos-ben-nguyen/ |website=punditarena.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>
Horiguchi next faced [[Ben Nguyen]] in a 132 pound catchweight bout on April 21, 2019, at [[2019 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 15 - Yokohama|Rizin 15]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://jp.rizinff.com/_ct/17246838|title=【アーカイブ動画】1.31『RIZIN.15』記者会見 - RIZIN FIGHTING FEDERATION（ライジン オフィシャルサイト）|website=jp.rizinff.com|language=ja|access-date=2019-01-31}}</ref> He won the fight via TKO in the first round.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Cunningham |first1=Cillian |title=Kyoji Horiguchi Continues Blistering RIZIN Run With First-Round TKO |url=https://punditarena.com/mma/ccunningham/kyoji-horiguchi-tkos-ben-nguyen/ |website=punditarena.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>


Horiguchi headlined [[2019 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 18 - Nagoya|Rizin 18]] on August 18, 2019, against Kai Asakura in a non-title bout.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2019/7/8/20685998/kyoji-horiguchi-rizin-non-title-fight-august|title=Kyoji Horiguchi returns to Rizin for non-title bout in August|date=July 8, 2019|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Guilherme Cruz}}</ref> He lost the fight via technical knockout in the first round.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Carroll |first1=Peter |title=RIZIN 18 results and highlights: Kai Asakura stops Kyoji Horiguchi in 67 seconds |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2019/8/18/20810830/rizin-18-results-and-highlights-kai-asakura-stops-kyoji-horiguchi-in-67-seconds |website=mmafighting.com |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>
Horiguchi headlined [[2019 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 18 - Nagoya|Rizin 18]] on August 18, 2019, against Kai Asakura in a non-title bout.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2019/7/8/20685998/kyoji-horiguchi-rizin-non-title-fight-august|title=Kyoji Horiguchi returns to Rizin for non-title bout in August|date=July 8, 2019|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Guilherme Cruz}}</ref> He lost the fight via technical knockout in the first round.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Carroll |first1=Peter |title=RIZIN 18 results and highlights: Kai Asakura stops Kyoji Horiguchi in 67 seconds |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2019/8/18/20810830/rizin-18-results-and-highlights-kai-asakura-stops-kyoji-horiguchi-in-67-seconds |website=mmafighting.com |date=18 August 2019 |access-date=19 January 2021}}</ref>


Horiguchi was expected to defend his Rizin FF Bantamweight Championship title against Kai Asakura in a rematch at [[2019 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 20 - Saitama|Rizin 20]] on December 31, 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2019/10/12/20911025/kyoji-horiguchi-vs-kai-asakura-2-booked-for-rizins-new-years-eve-event|title=Kyoji Horiguchi vs. Kai Asakura 2 booked for Rizin's New Year's Eve event |author=Peter Carroll|date=October 12, 2019|publisher=mmafighting.com}}</ref> However, Horiguchi pulled out of the fight in mid-November citing a knee injury that is expected to keep him out of action for approximately 10 – 12 months. In turn, his bantamweight title has been vacated.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2019/11/kyoji-horiguchi-withdraws-from-rizin-ff-20-due-to-knee-injury-subsequently-vacates-title|title=Kyoji Horiguchi withdraws from Rizin FF 20 due to knee injury, subsequently vacates title|date=2019-11-14|website=mmajunkie.com|author=Nolan King |access-date=2019-11-14}}</ref>
Horiguchi was expected to defend his Rizin FF Bantamweight Championship title against Kai Asakura in a rematch at [[2019 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 20 - Saitama|Rizin 20]] on December 31, 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2019/10/12/20911025/kyoji-horiguchi-vs-kai-asakura-2-booked-for-rizins-new-years-eve-event|title=Kyoji Horiguchi vs. Kai Asakura 2 booked for Rizin's New Year's Eve event |author=Peter Carroll|date=October 12, 2019|publisher=mmafighting.com}}</ref> However, Horiguchi pulled out of the fight in mid-November citing a knee injury that is expected to keep him out of action for approximately 10 – 12 months. In turn, his bantamweight title has been vacated.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2019/11/kyoji-horiguchi-withdraws-from-rizin-ff-20-due-to-knee-injury-subsequently-vacates-title|title=Kyoji Horiguchi withdraws from Rizin FF 20 due to knee injury, subsequently vacates title|date=2019-11-14|website=mmajunkie.com|author=Nolan King |access-date=2019-11-14}}</ref>


===Bellator MMA / Rizin===
===Bellator MMA===
In April 2019, it was announced that Horiguchi would face [[Darrion Caldwell]] for the [[List of Bellator MMA champions|Bellator Bantamweight]] title on June 14, 2019, at [[Bellator MMA in 2019#Bellator 222|Bellator 222]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.bellator.com/events/ja5yfg/bellator-222-machida-vs-sonnen|title=Bellator 222: Machida vs. Sonnen|date=2019-04-08|work=bellator.com|access-date=2019-04-08|language=en-US|archive-date=2019-04-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190413225956/http://www.bellator.com/events/ja5yfg/bellator-222-machida-vs-sonnen|url-status=dead}}</ref> The pair previously fought in December 2018 in the Rizin promotion with Horiguchi winning by submission. [[Scott Coker]], president of [[Bellator MMA]] disclosed to the media that Horiguchi's contract features a rematch clause. Should Horiguchi win the rematch, he will be obligated to defend the Bellator belt once a year.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2018/12/scott-coker-says-caldwell-vs-horiguchi-has-rematch-clause-in-bellator-not-rizin|date=2018-12-12|work=bellator.com|access-date=2019-05-20|language=en-US|title=Scott Coker says Caldwell vs. Horiguchi has rematch clause – in Bellator, not Rizin}}</ref> Horiguchi won the bout and title by unanimous decision. However, due to the injury suffered in October 2019, Horiguchi vacated his Bellator Bantamweight championship in late November 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2019/11/kyoji-horiguchi-relinquishes-bellator-bantamweight-title-knee-injury|title=Kyoji Horiguchi relinquishes Bellator bantamweight title due to knee injury|author=Danny Segura|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=November 27, 2019}}</ref>
In April 2019, it was announced that Horiguchi would face [[Darrion Caldwell]] for the [[List of Bellator MMA champions|Bellator Bantamweight]] title on June 14, 2019, at [[Bellator MMA in 2019#Bellator 222|Bellator 222]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.bellator.com/events/ja5yfg/bellator-222-machida-vs-sonnen|title=Bellator 222: Machida vs. Sonnen|date=2019-04-08|work=bellator.com|access-date=2019-04-08|language=en-US|archive-date=2019-04-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190413225956/http://www.bellator.com/events/ja5yfg/bellator-222-machida-vs-sonnen|url-status=dead}}</ref> The pair previously fought in December 2018 in the Rizin promotion with Horiguchi winning by submission. [[Scott Coker]], president of [[Bellator MMA]] disclosed to the media that Horiguchi's contract features a rematch clause. Should Horiguchi win the rematch, he will be obligated to defend the Bellator belt once a year.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2018/12/scott-coker-says-caldwell-vs-horiguchi-has-rematch-clause-in-bellator-not-rizin|date=2018-12-12|work=bellator.com|access-date=2019-05-20|language=en-US|title=Scott Coker says Caldwell vs. Horiguchi has rematch clause – in Bellator, not Rizin}}</ref> Horiguchi won the bout and title by unanimous decision. However, due to the injury suffered in October 2019, Horiguchi vacated his Bellator Bantamweight championship in late November 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2019/11/kyoji-horiguchi-relinquishes-bellator-bantamweight-title-knee-injury|title=Kyoji Horiguchi relinquishes Bellator bantamweight title due to knee injury|author=Danny Segura|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=November 27, 2019}}</ref>


After undergoing a successful knee surgery,<ref>{{cite web |title=Kyoji Horiguchi already walking and fishing but won't rush his MMA comeback |url=https://asianmma.com/kyoji-horiguchi-already-walking-and-fishing-but-wont-rush-his-mma-comeback/ |website=asianmma.com |access-date=13 November 2020}}</ref> Horiguchi is set to make his return to mixed martial arts, following a 15 month hiatus from the sport. He rematched [[Kai Asakura]] during [[2020 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 26 – Saitama|Rizin 26 – Saitama]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Kyoji Horiguchi to rematch Kai Asakura at Rizin 26 |url=https://asianmma.com/kyoji-horiguchi-to-rematch-kai-asakura-at-rizin-26/ |website=asianmma.com |access-date=13 November 2020}}</ref> Going into the rematch with Asakura, Horiguchi said it was his goal to dispel any rumors about ACL injuries finishing an athlete's career.<ref name="Blaine Henry"/> Horiguchi said he is also feeling almost completely healed leading into the fight. “I’m about 100% recovered. I had to start from zero after the surgery and built back the muscles that have gotten weak. But the hard work and long rehab has paid off and I am back.”<ref name="Blaine Henry"/> Horiguchi won the fight by a first-round TKO.<ref>{{cite web |title=RIZIN.26 NYE Results and videos: Kyoji Horiguchi gets revenge, TKOs Asakura early |url=https://www.bloodyelbow.com/2020/12/31/22207837/rizin-26-nye-results-and-videos-kyoji-horiguchi-gets-revenge-tkos-asakura-early |website=bloodyelbow.com |access-date=31 December 2020}}</ref>
After undergoing a successful knee surgery,<ref>{{cite web |title=Kyoji Horiguchi already walking and fishing but won't rush his MMA comeback |url=https://asianmma.com/kyoji-horiguchi-already-walking-and-fishing-but-wont-rush-his-mma-comeback/ |website=asianmma.com |date=21 April 2020 |access-date=13 November 2020}}</ref> Horiguchi is set to make his return to mixed martial arts, following a 15 month hiatus from the sport. He rematched [[Kai Asakura]] during [[2020 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 26 – Saitama|Rizin 26 – Saitama]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Kyoji Horiguchi to rematch Kai Asakura at Rizin 26 |url=https://asianmma.com/kyoji-horiguchi-to-rematch-kai-asakura-at-rizin-26/ |website=asianmma.com |date=13 November 2020 |access-date=13 November 2020}}</ref> Going into the rematch with Asakura, Horiguchi said it was his goal to dispel any rumors about ACL injuries finishing an athlete's career.<ref name="Blaine Henry"/> Horiguchi said he is also feeling almost completely healed leading into the fight. “I’m about 100% recovered. I had to start from zero after the surgery and built back the muscles that have gotten weak. But the hard work and long rehab has paid off and I am back.”<ref name="Blaine Henry"/> Horiguchi won the fight by a first-round TKO.<ref>{{cite web |title=RIZIN.26 NYE Results and videos: Kyoji Horiguchi gets revenge, TKOs Asakura early |url=https://www.bloodyelbow.com/2020/12/31/22207837/rizin-26-nye-results-and-videos-kyoji-horiguchi-gets-revenge-tkos-asakura-early |website=bloodyelbow.com |access-date=31 December 2020}}</ref>


In September 2021, Horiguchi was announced to be a [[Bellator MMA|Bellator]] contracted fighter, however due to longstanding relationship between Bellator and Rizin, Horiguchi will remain the [[Rizin Fighting Federation#Bantamweight Championship|Rizin Bantamweight Champion]], and the plan, once COVID travel restrictions ease, is for him to still fight in Japan on occasion.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-09-10|title=Horiguchi signs with Bellator, will keep Rizin title|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/32179458/kyoji-horiguchi-signs-bellator-remain-rizin-bantamweight-champion|access-date=2021-09-10|website=ESPN.com|language=en}}</ref>
In September 2021, Horiguchi was announced to be a [[Bellator MMA|Bellator]] contracted fighter, however due to longstanding relationship between Bellator and Rizin, Horiguchi will remain the [[Rizin Fighting Federation#Bantamweight Championship|Rizin Bantamweight Champion]], and the plan, once COVID travel restrictions ease, is for him to still fight in Japan on occasion.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-09-10|title=Horiguchi signs with Bellator, will keep Rizin title|url=https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/32179458/kyoji-horiguchi-signs-bellator-remain-rizin-bantamweight-champion|access-date=2021-09-10|website=ESPN.com|language=en}}</ref>
Line 156: Line 155:
In the first round bout of the $1 million [[2022 in Bellator MMA#Bellator Bantamweight World Grand Prix Tournament|Bellator Bantamweight World Grand Prix Tournament]], Horiguchi faced [[Patchy Mix]] on April 23, 2022, at [[Bellator 279]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-03-09 |title=Bellator 278 & 279 to be held in Hawaii, headlined by return of Ilima-Lei Macfarlane, Cyborg title defense, and Bantamweight Grand Prix |url=https://www.khon2.com/sports/bellator-278-279-to-be-held-in-hawaii-headlined-by-return-of-ilima-lei-macfarlane-cyborg-title-defense-and-bantamweight-grand-prix/ |access-date=2022-03-09 |website=KHON2 |language=en-US}}</ref> He lost the bout via unanimous decision.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Jay |date=2022-04-23 |title=Bellator 279: Patchy Mix Moves Forward in Grand Prix After Decision Win Over Kyoji Horiguchi |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2022/04/23/bellator-279-patchy-mix-vs-kyoji-horiguchi/ |access-date=2022-04-24 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US}}</ref>
In the first round bout of the $1 million [[2022 in Bellator MMA#Bellator Bantamweight World Grand Prix Tournament|Bellator Bantamweight World Grand Prix Tournament]], Horiguchi faced [[Patchy Mix]] on April 23, 2022, at [[Bellator 279]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-03-09 |title=Bellator 278 & 279 to be held in Hawaii, headlined by return of Ilima-Lei Macfarlane, Cyborg title defense, and Bantamweight Grand Prix |url=https://www.khon2.com/sports/bellator-278-279-to-be-held-in-hawaii-headlined-by-return-of-ilima-lei-macfarlane-cyborg-title-defense-and-bantamweight-grand-prix/ |access-date=2022-03-09 |website=KHON2 |language=en-US}}</ref> He lost the bout via unanimous decision.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Jay |date=2022-04-23 |title=Bellator 279: Patchy Mix Moves Forward in Grand Prix After Decision Win Over Kyoji Horiguchi |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2022/04/23/bellator-279-patchy-mix-vs-kyoji-horiguchi/ |access-date=2022-04-24 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US}}</ref>


⚫
=== Return to Rizin and Flyweight ===
Horiguchi faced Yuto Hokamura at [[2022 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Super Rizin & Rizin 38|Rizin 38]] on September 25, 2022.<ref>{{cite web |title=ＲＩＺＩＮ．３８で堀口恭司ＶＳ金太郎！萩原京平は鈴木千裕の"ママ活"疑惑で挑発 |url=https://www.daily.co.jp/ring/2022/08/31/0015598638.shtml |website=daily.co.jp |access-date=31 August 2022}}</ref> After surviving an early knockdown, Horiguchi won the bout via a technical submission in the second round.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Cruz |first1=Guilherme |title=RIZIN 28 videos, results: Kyoji Horiguchi sleeps 'Kintaro' with arm-triangle choke |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2022/9/25/23371034/rizin-28-videos-results-kyoji-horiguchi-sleeps-yuto-hokamura-kintaro-arm-triangle-choke |website=mmafighting.com |access-date=26 September 2022 |date=25 September 2022}}</ref>
Horiguchi faced Yuto Hokamura at [[2022 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Super Rizin & Rizin 38|Rizin 38]] on September 25, 2022.<ref>{{cite web |title=ＲＩＺＩＮ．３８で堀口恭司ＶＳ金太郎！萩原京平は鈴木千裕の"ママ活"疑惑で挑発 |url=https://www.daily.co.jp/ring/2022/08/31/0015598638.shtml |website=daily.co.jp |access-date=31 August 2022}}</ref> After surviving an early knockdown, Horiguchi won the bout via a technical submission in the second round.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Cruz |first1=Guilherme |title=RIZIN 28 videos, results: Kyoji Horiguchi sleeps 'Kintaro' with arm-triangle choke |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2022/9/25/23371034/rizin-28-videos-results-kyoji-horiguchi-sleeps-yuto-hokamura-kintaro-arm-triangle-choke |website=mmafighting.com |access-date=26 September 2022 |date=25 September 2022}}</ref>


⚫
=== Return to Flyweight ===
Moving down to Flyweight, Horiguchi faced [[Hiromasa Ougikubo]] at [[Bellator MMA vs. Rizin]] on December 31, 2022.<ref>{{cite web |author=Farah Hannoun |date=October 26, 2022 |title=Rizin vs. Bellator New Year's Eve matchups announced: A.J. McKee headlines over Patricio Freire |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2022/10/rizin-vs-bellator-new-years-eve-matchups-announced-aj-mckee-headlines-patricio-pitbull-freire |work=[[MMAjunkie.com]]}}</ref> Vacating the [[Rizin Fighting Federation#Grand-Prix Champions|RIZIN Bantamweight Championship]] before the bout as he intends to fight at flyweight going into the future, Horiguchi dominated Ougikubo in his return to flyweight after 5 years on the way to a unanimous decision victory.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Jay |date=2022-12-31 |title=Bellator MMA vs. RIZIN: Kyoji Horiguchi Sails Past Hiromasa Ougikubo, Goes 3-0 in Career Series |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2022/12/31/bellator-mma-vs-rizin-kyoji-horiguchi-vs-hiromasa-ougikubo/ |access-date=2022-12-31 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-12-31 |title=Rizin FF vs. Bellator results: Kyoji Horiguchi dominates Hiromasa Ougikubo to give Team Bellator series win |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2022/12/rizin-ff-vs-bellator-results-kyoji-horiguchi-dominates-hiromasa-ougikubo-give-team-bellator-series-win |access-date=2022-12-31 |website=MMA Junkie |language=en-US}}</ref>
Moving down to Flyweight, Horiguchi faced [[Hiromasa Ougikubo]] at [[Bellator MMA vs. Rizin]] on December 31, 2022.<ref>{{cite web |author=Farah Hannoun |date=October 26, 2022 |title=Rizin vs. Bellator New Year's Eve matchups announced: A.J. McKee headlines over Patricio Freire |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2022/10/rizin-vs-bellator-new-years-eve-matchups-announced-aj-mckee-headlines-patricio-pitbull-freire |work=[[MMAjunkie.com]]}}</ref> Vacating the [[Rizin Fighting Federation#Grand-Prix Champions|RIZIN Bantamweight Championship]] before the bout as he intends to fight at flyweight going into the future, Horiguchi dominated Ougikubo in his return to flyweight after 5 years on the way to a unanimous decision victory.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Jay |date=2022-12-31 |title=Bellator MMA vs. RIZIN: Kyoji Horiguchi Sails Past Hiromasa Ougikubo, Goes 3-0 in Career Series |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2022/12/31/bellator-mma-vs-rizin-kyoji-horiguchi-vs-hiromasa-ougikubo/ |access-date=2022-12-31 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-12-31 |title=Rizin FF vs. Bellator results: Kyoji Horiguchi dominates Hiromasa Ougikubo to give Team Bellator series win |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2022/12/rizin-ff-vs-bellator-results-kyoji-horiguchi-dominates-hiromasa-ougikubo-give-team-bellator-series-win |access-date=2022-12-31 |website=MMA Junkie |language=en-US}}</ref>


Horiguchi was scheduled to face [[Ray Borg]] on April 22, 2023, at [[Bellator 295]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Riggs |first=Drake |date=2023-03-08 |title=Kyoji Horiguchi welcomes Ray Borg to Bellator in April flyweight showdown |url=https://www.mmamania.com/2023/3/8/23630072/kyoji-horiguchi-welcomes-ray-borg-to-bellator-in-april-flyweight-showdown-mma |access-date=2023-03-08 |website=MMAmania.com |language=en}}</ref> However, the day of the weigh-ins, due to weight-management complications for Borg, the bout was scrapped.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-04-21 |title=Ray Borg, Keoni Diggs cut from roster after weigh-ins – one day before Bellator 295 in Honolulu |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2023/04/ray-borg-keoni-diggs-cut-from-roster-after-weigh-ins-one-day-before-bellator-295-in-honolulu |access-date=2023-04-21 |website=MMA Junkie |language=en-US}}</ref>
Horiguchi was scheduled to face [[Ray Borg]] on April 22, 2023, at [[Bellator 295]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Riggs |first=Drake |date=2023-03-08 |title=Kyoji Horiguchi welcomes Ray Borg to Bellator in April flyweight showdown |url=https://www.mmamania.com/2023/3/8/23630072/kyoji-horiguchi-welcomes-ray-borg-to-bellator-in-april-flyweight-showdown-mma |access-date=2023-03-08 |website=MMAmania.com |language=en}}</ref> However, the day of the weigh-ins, due to weight-management complications for Borg, the bout was scrapped.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-04-21 |title=Ray Borg, Keoni Diggs cut from roster after weigh-ins – one day before Bellator 295 in Honolulu |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2023/04/ray-borg-keoni-diggs-cut-from-roster-after-weigh-ins-one-day-before-bellator-295-in-honolulu |access-date=2023-04-21 |website=MMA Junkie |language=en-US}}</ref>


Horiguchi next competed for the inaugural [[List of Bellator MMA champions#Flyweight World Championship|Bellator Flyweight World Championship]] at [[Bellator MMA x Rizin 2]] on July 30, 2023, in Saitama, Japan where he faced Makoto Shinryu Takahashi.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Jay |date=2023-05-27 |title=Bellator X RIZIN 2 Announced with Inaugural Flyweight Title Fight, A.J. McKee vs. Patricky Pitbull Headlines|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2023/05/27/bellator-x-rizin-2-announced-july-30-saitama-j-mckee-vs-patricky-pitbull-headlines/|access-date=2023-05-27 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US}}</ref> The bout was declared a no contest after Horiguchi accidentally poked Takahashi in the eye which prevented him from continuing.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Jay |date=2023-07-30 |title=Inaugural Bellator Flyweight Title Fight Fizzles After Accidental Eye Poke |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2023/07/30/bellator-x-rizin-kyoji-horiguchi-vs-makoto-shinryu/ |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US}}</ref>
Horiguchi next competed for the inaugural [[List of Bellator MMA champions#Flyweight World Championship|Bellator Flyweight World Championship]] at [[Bellator MMA x Rizin 2]] on July 30, 2023, in Saitama, Japan where he faced [[Makoto Takahashi (fighter)|Makoto "Shinryu" Takahashi]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Jay |date=2023-05-27 |title=Bellator X RIZIN 2 Announced with Inaugural Flyweight Title Fight, A.J. McKee vs. Patricky Pitbull Headlines|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2023/05/27/bellator-x-rizin-2-announced-july-30-saitama-j-mckee-vs-patricky-pitbull-headlines/|access-date=2023-05-27 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US}}</ref> The bout was declared a no contest after Horiguchi accidentally poked Takahashi in the eye which prevented him from continuing.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Jay |date=2023-07-30 |title=Inaugural Bellator Flyweight Title Fight Fizzles After Accidental Eye Poke |url=https://cagesidepress.com/2023/07/30/bellator-x-rizin-kyoji-horiguchi-vs-makoto-shinryu/ |access-date=2023-08-04 |website=Cageside Press |language=en-US}}</ref>


Horiguchi is next scheduled to rematch Makoto Takahashi, this time for the inaugural [[Rizin Fighting Federation#Flyweight Championship|Rizin Flyweight World Championship]] at [[2023_in_Rizin_Fighting_Federation#Rizin_45|Rizin 45]] on December 31, 2023.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2023/10/rizin-45-fight-card-kyoji-horiguchi-john-dodson-juan-archuleta|title=RIZIN 45 official with Kyoji Horiguchi, John Dodson, Juan Archuelta and more|author=Nolan King|date=October 26, 2023|work=[[MMAjunkie.com]]}}</ref>
Horiguchi rematched [[Makoto Takahashi (fighter)|Makoto Takahashi]] at [[2023_in_Rizin_Fighting_Federation#Rizin_45|Rizin 45]], on December 31, 2023, this time for the inaugural [[Rizin Fighting Federation#Flyweight Championship|Rizin Flyweight World Championship]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2023/10/rizin-45-fight-card-kyoji-horiguchi-john-dodson-juan-archuleta|title=RIZIN 45 official with Kyoji Horiguchi, John Dodson, Juan Archuelta and more|author=Nolan King|date=October 26, 2023|work=[[MMAjunkie.com]]}}</ref> and won the bout via rear-naked choke in the second round.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Kyoji-Horiguchi-Captures-Flyweight-Title-with-SecondRound-RNC-at-Rizin-FF-45-192149|title=Kyoji Horiguchi Captures Flyweight Title with Second-Round RNC at Rizin FF 45|website=sherdog.com |language=en-US}}</ref>

Horiguchi faced [[Sergio Pettis]] in a rematch on June 9, 2024 at [[2024_in_Rizin_Fighting_Federation#Rizin_47|RIZIN 47]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cruz |first=Guillherme |date=2024-04-19 |title=Sergio Pettis vs. Kyoji Horiguchi 2 announced for RIZIN 47 in June |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2024/4/19/24134747/sergio-pettis-kyoji-horiguchi-kleber-koike-juan-archuleta-announced-rizin-47 |access-date=2024-04-29 |website=MMA Fighting |language=en}}</ref> Horiguchi won the fight via unanimous decision.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://mmasucka.com/2024/06/08/rizin-47-results-kyoji-horiguchi-vs-sergio-pettis-2/ | title=Rizin 47 Results: Kyoji Horiguchi vs Sergio Pettis 2 | date=9 June 2024 }}</ref>


==Championships and accomplishments==
==Championships and accomplishments==


===Mixed martial arts===
===Mixed martial arts===
⚫
*'''[[Shooto ]]'''
⚫
**[[List of Shooto champions#Bantamweight Championship|Shooto Bantamweight Championship]] (One time; former)
⚫
***One successful title defense
⚫
**Shooto 2010 Rookie Tournament Winner
*'''[[Rizin Fighting Federation]]'''
*'''[[Rizin Fighting Federation]]'''
**[[Rizin Fighting Federation#Flyweight Championship|RIZIN Flyweight Championship]] (One time, current)
**[[Rizin Fighting Federation#Bantamweight Championship|RIZIN Bantamweight Championship]] (Two times)
**[[Rizin Fighting Federation#Bantamweight Championship|RIZIN Bantamweight Championship]] (Two times)
**[[2017 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix 2017 bracket|2017 RIZIN Bantamweight Grand Prix Championship]]
**[[2017 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix 2017 bracket|2017 RIZIN Bantamweight Grand Prix Championship]]
*'''[[Bellator MMA]]'''
*'''[[Bellator MMA]]'''
**[[List of Bellator champions#Bantamweight World Championship|Bellator Bantamweight World Championship]] (One time)
**[[List of Bellator champions#Bantamweight World Championship|Bellator Bantamweight World Championship]] (One time)
⚫
*'''[[Shooto ]]'''
⚫
**[[List of Shooto champions#Bantamweight Championship|Shooto Bantamweight Championship]] (One time; former)
⚫
***One successful title defense
⚫
**Shooto 2010 Rookie Tournament Winner


==Mixed martial arts record==
==Mixed martial arts record==
Line 186: Line 188:
| ko-wins= 15
| ko-wins= 15
| ko-losses= 2
| ko-losses= 2
| sub-wins= 4
| sub-wins= 5
| sub-losses= 1
| sub-losses= 1
| dec-wins= 12
| dec-wins= 13
| dec-losses= 2
| dec-losses= 2
| dq-wins=
| dq-wins=
Line 197: Line 199:
{{MMA record start}}
{{MMA record start}}
|-
|-
<!--|{{N/A}}
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center|{{nowrap| – (1)}}
|align=center| 33–5 (1)
|[[Sergio Pettis]]
|Makoto Takahashi
| Decision (unanimous)
⚫
|
|[[2024 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 47|Rizin 47]]
|{{dts|2024|June|9}}
|align=center|3
|align=center|5:00
|[[Tokyo]], Japan
|{{small|Bantamweight bout.}}
⚫
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center| 32–5 (1)
|[[Makoto Takahashi (fighter)|Makoto Takahashi]]
|Submission (rear-naked choke)
|[[2023 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 45|Rizin 45]]
|[[2023 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin 45|Rizin 45]]
|{{dts|2023|December|31}}
|{{dts|2023|December|31}}
|align=center|
|align=center|2
|align=center|
|align=center|3:44
|[[Saitama (city)|Saitama]], Japan
|[[Saitama (city)|Saitama]], Japan
|{{small|For the inaugural [[Rizin Fighting Federation#Flyweight Championship|Rizin Flyweight World Championship]].}}-->
|{{small|Won the inaugural [[Rizin Fighting Federation#Flyweight Championship|Rizin Flyweight Championship]].}}
|-
|-
|{{nocontest}}NC
|{{nocontest}}NC
|align=center|{{nowrap|31–5 (1)}}
|align=center|{{nowrap|31–5 (1)}}
|Makoto Takahashi
|[[Makoto Takahashi (fighter)|Makoto Takahashi]]
|NC (accidental eye poke)
|NC (accidental eye poke)
|[[Bellator MMA x Rizin 2]]
|[[Bellator MMA x Rizin 2]]
Line 250: Line 263:
|align=center|5:00
|align=center|5:00
|[[Honolulu, Hawaii]], United States
|[[Honolulu, Hawaii]], United States
|{{small|[[2022 in Bellator MMA#Bellator Bantamweight World Grand Prix Tournament|Bellator Bantamweight World Grand Prix Tournament]] Quarter-Final bout.}}
|{{small|[[2022 in Bellator MMA#Bellator Bantamweight World Grand Prix Tournament|Bellator Bantamweight World Grand Prix]] Quarterfinal.}}
|-
|-
|{{no2}}Loss
|{{no2}}Loss
Line 349: Line 362:
|align=center|0:14
|align=center|0:14
| rowspan=2|[[Saitama, Saitama|Saitama]], Japan
| rowspan=2|[[Saitama, Saitama|Saitama]], Japan
|{{small|Won the 2017 Rizin Bantamweight Grand-Prix.}}
|{{small|Won the [[2017 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix 2017 bracket|2017 Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix]].}}
|-
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
Line 357: Line 370:
|align=center|3
|align=center|3
|align=center|4:27
|align=center|4:27
|{{small|2017 Rizin Bantamweight Grand-Prix Semifinal.}}
|{{small|[[2017 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix 2017 bracket|2017 Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix]] Semifinal.}}
|-
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
Line 368: Line 381:
|align=center|4:30
|align=center|4:30
|[[Saitama, Saitama|Saitama]], Japan
|[[Saitama, Saitama|Saitama]], Japan
|{{small|2017 Rizin Bantamweight Grand-Prix Quarterfinal.}}
|{{small|[[2017 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix 2017 bracket|2017 Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix]] Quarterfinal.}}
|-
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
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|align=center|1:49
|align=center|1:49
|[[Saitama, Saitama|Saitama]], Japan
|[[Saitama, Saitama|Saitama]], Japan
|{{small|Return to Bantamweight. 2017 Rizin Bantamweight Grand-Prix First Round.}}
|{{small|Return to Bantamweight. [[2017 in Rizin Fighting Federation#Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix 2017 bracket|2017 Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix]] First Round.}}
|-
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
Line 626: Line 639:
|-
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center| 4-0
|align=center| 4–0
|Sakuma Kenta
|Sakuma Kenta
|Decision (Unanimous)
|Decision (unanimous)
|6th East Japan Amateur Shooto Open Tournament
|6th East Japan Amateur Shooto Open Tournament
|December 20, 2009
|December 20, 2009
Line 637: Line 650:
|-
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center| 3-0
|align=center| 3–0
|Kawahara Yu
|Kawahara Yu
|Decision (Unanimous)
|Decision (unanimous)
|6th East Japan Amateur Shooto Open Tournament
|6th East Japan Amateur Shooto Open Tournament
|December 20, 2009
|December 20, 2009
Line 648: Line 661:
|-
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center| 2-0
|align=center| 2–0
|Uoi Mamoru
|Uoi Mamoru
|TKO (Injury)
|TKO (injury)
|6th East Japan Amateur Shooto Open Tournament
|6th East Japan Amateur Shooto Open Tournament
|December 20, 2009
|December 20, 2009
Line 659: Line 672:
|-
|-
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|align=center| 1-0
|align=center| 1–0
|Naito Naiki
|Naito Naiki
|Decision (Unanimous)
|Decision (unanimous)
|6th East Japan Amateur Shooto Open Tournament
|6th East Japan Amateur Shooto Open Tournament
|December 20, 2009
|December 20, 2009
Line 687: Line 700:
|-
|-
| {{no2}}Loss
| {{no2}}Loss
| align=center| 0-1
| align=center| 0–1
| [[Tenshin Nasukawa]]
| [[Tenshin Nasukawa]]
| Decision (unanimous)
| Decision (unanimous)
Line 706: Line 719:


==See also==
==See also==
*[[List of current Bellator MMA fighters]]
*[[List of current Rizin FF fighters]]
*[[List of current Rizin FF fighters]]
* [[List of male mixed martial artists]]
* [[List of male mixed martial artists]]

Latest revision as of 04:11, 28 October 2024

Kyoji Horiguchi
Born (1990-10-12) October 12, 1990 (age 34)
Takasaki, Gunma, Japan
Native name堀口恭司
Other namesThe Supernova (former),[1] The Typhoon[2]
NicknameThe Typhoon
ResidenceTakasaki, Gunma, Japan
Height5 ft 5 in (1.65 m)[3]
Weight135 lb (61 kg; 9 st 9 lb)
DivisionBantamweight
Flyweight
Reach66 in (168 cm)[4]
StyleShotokan Karate, Kickboxing, Shootfighting
Fighting out ofCoconut Creek, Florida, U.S.
TeamKRAZY BEE (2009–2015)[5]
American Top Team (2015–present)[6]
TrainerNorifumi Yamamoto
Mike Thomas Brown
RankA-Class Shootist
2nd degree black belt in Shotokan Karate[7]
Years active2010–present
Mixed martial arts record
Total39
Wins33
By knockout15
By submission5
By decision13
Losses5
By knockout2
By submission1
By decision2
No contests1
Other information
Websitehttps://horiguchikyoji.com/
Mixed martial arts record from Sherdog

Kyoji Horiguchi (Japanese: 堀口 恭司, Horiguchi Kyōji, born October 12, 1990) is a Japanese mixed martial artist[8] currently competing in Rizin FF[9] in the Flyweight division, where he is the current RIZIN Flyweight Champion and former RIZIN Bantamweight Championship. He is also the former Bellator Bantamweight World Championship.

A professional competitor since 2010, Horiguchi formerly competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship[10] and is the former Shooto Bantamweight Champion.[11] He graduated from Sakushin Gakuin High School in Utsunomiya, Tochigi, Japan.[12]

Background

[edit]

Horiguchi began training in karate at the age of five and was talented, as he soon began competing in full-contact competitions and went on to become a regional champion.[13] At the age of 16, Horiguchi viewed a PRIDE Fighting Championships event and became drawn to mixed martial arts. Horiguchi began training in the sport at Norifumi Yamamoto's Krazy Bee Gym after graduating high school when he was 18 years old.[13] Horiguchi said seeing Yamamoto knockout bigger men was what drew him to the fighter.[14]

Mixed martial arts career

[edit]

Shooto

[edit]

Horiguchi made his professional MMA debut in Shooto in 2010, winning a decision over Ranki Kawana. Prior to this, Horiguchi was Bantamweight fighter, Norifumi Yamamoto's sparring partner. Just two fights later he would win the Shooto 2010 Rookie Tournament, finishing Seiji Akao by TKO early in the second round.[15]

His biggest victory up to that time would come over the 2009 Rookie Tournament runner-up, Yuta Nezu. Horiguchi's knockout power was on display early, knocking out Nezu in the first round. His nickname is The Typhoon.

Horiguchi took on the former Shooto Bantamweight Champion, Masakatsu Ueda on January 8, 2012. Ueda controlled most of the bout with his superior grappling, nearly submitting Horiguchi numerous times. He lost by a majority decision.[16]

Horiguchi captured the Shooto Bantamweight Championship on March 16, 2013, when he defeated Hiromasa Ougikubo submitting him in the second round by rear-naked choke.[17]

On June 22, Horiguchi fought Pancrase Bantamweight Champion, Shintaro Ishiwatari, at VTJ 2nd, where Horiguchi acted as a Shooto representative. The two engaged in a competitive, back and forth fight. Many outlets had Ishiwatari leading on the scorecards heading into the final round. Horiguchi rallied early in the fifth round, landing a barrage of punches on Ishiwatari to force the stoppage and defend his title.[18]

Ultimate Fighting Championship

[edit]

Horiguchi made his promotional debut against Dustin Pague on October 19, 2013, at UFC 166.[19] He was victorious in his debut, winning the fight via TKO in the second round.[20]

Horiguchi was expected to face Chris Cariaso in a Flyweight bout on February 1, 2014, at UFC 169.[21] However, Horiguchi pulled out of the bout citing injury[22] and was replaced by WEC veteran Danny Martinez.[23]

Horiguchi faced Darrell Montague on May 10, 2014, at UFC Fight Night 40.[24] He won the fight via unanimous decision.[25]

A rescheduled bout with Chris Cariaso was expected to take place on September 20, 2014, at UFC Fight Night 52.[26] However, Cariaso was pulled from the bout with Horiguchi in favor of a matchup with current flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson at UFC 178.[27] Horiguchi instead faced Jon Delos Reyes.[28] He won the fight via TKO in the first round.

Horoguchi faced Louis Gaudinot on January 3, 2015, at UFC 182.[29] He won the fight by unanimous decision.[30]

Horiguchi faced Flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson on April 25, 2015, in the main event at UFC 186.[31] Despite doing well during the first round, Horiguchi lost the otherwise one-sided fight via an armbar submission at 4:59 of the fifth round, resulting in the latest finish in UFC history.[32]

Horiguchi faced Chico Camus at UFC Fight Night 75 on September 27, 2015.[33] He won the fight by unanimous decision.[34]

Horiguchi next faced Neil Seery on May 8, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 87.[35] He won the fight via unanimous decision.[36]

Horiguchi was expected to face Ali Bagautinov on October 15, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 97.[37] However, the promotion announced on October 6 that they had cancelled the event entirely.[38][39] In turn, the pairing was quickly rescheduled and took place on November 19, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 99.[40] He won the fight via unanimous decision.[41]

It was announced on February 17, 2017, that Horiguchi chose not to renew his contract with the UFC.

Rizin Fighting Federation

[edit]

In joining RIZIN, Horiguchi says he felt more at home and enjoyed the shows RIZIN put on built around him.[14]

On April 16, 2017, Horiguchi made his debut in Rizin Fighting Federation, where he defeated Yuki Motoya by unanimous decision.[42]

Horiguichi next faced Hideo Tokoro in the first round of the Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix on July 30, 2017, at Rizin 6.[43] He won the fight via knockout in the first round.

Horiguchi competed in the rest of the Bantamweight Grand Prix in December 2017, fighting three times over two days. In the quarter-finals, he faced Gabriel Oliviera on December 29, 2017, at Rizin World Grand Prix 2017: 2nd Round.[44] He won the fight via TKO in the first round.[45] He advanced to the next round, which was held on December 31, 2017, at Rizin World Grand Prix 2017: Final Round. He faced Manel Kape in the semi-finals and won via arm-triangle choke submission in the third round.[46] In the final, he faced Shintaro Ishiwatari and won via knockout early into the second round to become the inaugural RIZIN Bantamweight Champion.[47]

Horiguchi faced fellow UFC veteran Ian McCall in the main event at Rizin 10 on May 6, 2018.[48] He defeated McCall just 9 seconds into the first round via KO. This was the second fastest stoppage in Rizin history.[49]

After a 9-second knockout victory, Horiguchi made a quick turnaround to face fellow Japanese champion Hiromasa Ougikubo in a long-awaited rematch.[50] Ogikubo, the current Shooto bantamweight champion, had not lost since he last faced Horiguchi in 2013. Horiguchi won the bout via unanimous decision.[51]

On September 30, 2018, Horiguchi fought Japanese Kickboxer Tenshin Nasukawa at Rizin 13 under Rizin Kickboxing rules, and lost by unanimous decision.[52]

Horiguchi faced the reigning Bellator Bantamweight champion Darrion Caldwell for the vacant Rizin Bantamweight Championship at Rizin 14 on December 31, 2018.[53] He won the fight by submission via a guillotine choke.[54]

Horiguchi with Bellator and Rizin belts in 2019.

Horiguchi next faced Ben Nguyen in a 132 pound catchweight bout on April 21, 2019, at Rizin 15.[55] He won the fight via TKO in the first round.[56]

Horiguchi headlined Rizin 18 on August 18, 2019, against Kai Asakura in a non-title bout.[57] He lost the fight via technical knockout in the first round.[58]

Horiguchi was expected to defend his Rizin FF Bantamweight Championship title against Kai Asakura in a rematch at Rizin 20 on December 31, 2019.[59] However, Horiguchi pulled out of the fight in mid-November citing a knee injury that is expected to keep him out of action for approximately 10 – 12 months. In turn, his bantamweight title has been vacated.[60]

Bellator MMA

[edit]

In April 2019, it was announced that Horiguchi would face Darrion Caldwell for the Bellator Bantamweight title on June 14, 2019, at Bellator 222.[61] The pair previously fought in December 2018 in the Rizin promotion with Horiguchi winning by submission. Scott Coker, president of Bellator MMA disclosed to the media that Horiguchi's contract features a rematch clause. Should Horiguchi win the rematch, he will be obligated to defend the Bellator belt once a year.[62] Horiguchi won the bout and title by unanimous decision. However, due to the injury suffered in October 2019, Horiguchi vacated his Bellator Bantamweight championship in late November 2019.[63]

After undergoing a successful knee surgery,[64] Horiguchi is set to make his return to mixed martial arts, following a 15 month hiatus from the sport. He rematched Kai Asakura during Rizin 26 – Saitama.[65] Going into the rematch with Asakura, Horiguchi said it was his goal to dispel any rumors about ACL injuries finishing an athlete's career.[14] Horiguchi said he is also feeling almost completely healed leading into the fight. “I’m about 100% recovered. I had to start from zero after the surgery and built back the muscles that have gotten weak. But the hard work and long rehab has paid off and I am back.”[14] Horiguchi won the fight by a first-round TKO.[66]

In September 2021, Horiguchi was announced to be a Bellator contracted fighter, however due to longstanding relationship between Bellator and Rizin, Horiguchi will remain the Rizin Bantamweight Champion, and the plan, once COVID travel restrictions ease, is for him to still fight in Japan on occasion.[67]

Horiguchi competed for the Bellator Bantamweight World Championship against champion Sergio Pettis on December 3, 2021, at Bellator 272.[68] Despite having controlled most of the bout beforehand, Horiguchi lost the fight via knockout in round four.[69]

In the first round bout of the $1 million Bellator Bantamweight World Grand Prix Tournament, Horiguchi faced Patchy Mix on April 23, 2022, at Bellator 279.[70] He lost the bout via unanimous decision.[71]

Return to Rizin and Flyweight

[edit]

Horiguchi faced Yuto Hokamura at Rizin 38 on September 25, 2022.[72] After surviving an early knockdown, Horiguchi won the bout via a technical submission in the second round.[73]

Moving down to Flyweight, Horiguchi faced Hiromasa Ougikubo at Bellator MMA vs. Rizin on December 31, 2022.[74] Vacating the RIZIN Bantamweight Championship before the bout as he intends to fight at flyweight going into the future, Horiguchi dominated Ougikubo in his return to flyweight after 5 years on the way to a unanimous decision victory.[75][76]

Horiguchi was scheduled to face Ray Borg on April 22, 2023, at Bellator 295.[77] However, the day of the weigh-ins, due to weight-management complications for Borg, the bout was scrapped.[78]

Horiguchi next competed for the inaugural Bellator Flyweight World Championship at Bellator MMA x Rizin 2 on July 30, 2023, in Saitama, Japan where he faced Makoto "Shinryu" Takahashi.[79] The bout was declared a no contest after Horiguchi accidentally poked Takahashi in the eye which prevented him from continuing.[80]

Horiguchi rematched Makoto Takahashi at Rizin 45, on December 31, 2023, this time for the inaugural Rizin Flyweight World Championship,[81] and won the bout via rear-naked choke in the second round.[82]

Horiguchi faced Sergio Pettis in a rematch on June 9, 2024 at RIZIN 47.[83] Horiguchi won the fight via unanimous decision.[84]

Championships and accomplishments

[edit]

Mixed martial arts

[edit]

Mixed martial arts record

[edit]
Professional record breakdown
39 matches 33 wins 5 losses
By knockout 15 2
By submission 5 1
By decision 13 2
No contests 1
Res. Record Opponent Method Event Date Round Time Location Notes
Win 33–5 (1) Sergio Pettis Decision (unanimous) Rizin 47 June 9, 2024 3 5:00 Tokyo, Japan Bantamweight bout.
Win 32–5 (1) Makoto Takahashi Submission (rear-naked choke) Rizin 45 December 31, 2023 2 3:44 Saitama, Japan Won the inaugural Rizin Flyweight Championship.
NC 31–5 (1) Makoto Takahashi NC (accidental eye poke) Bellator MMA x Rizin 2 July 30, 2023 1 0:25 Saitama, Japan For the inaugural Bellator Flyweight World Championship. Accidental eye poke rendered Takahashi unable to continue.
Win 31–5 Hiromasa Ougikubo Decision (unanimous) Bellator MMA vs. Rizin December 31, 2022 3 5:00 Saitama, Japan Return to Flyweight.
Win 30–5 Yuto Hokamura Technical Submission (arm-triangle choke) Rizin 38 September 25, 2022 2 2:59 Saitama, Japan Non-title bout.
Loss 29–5 Patchy Mix Decision (unanimous) Bellator 279 April 23, 2022 5 5:00 Honolulu, Hawaii, United States Bellator Bantamweight World Grand Prix Quarterfinal.
Loss 29–4 Sergio Pettis KO (spinning backfist) Bellator 272 December 3, 2021 4 3:24 Uncasville, Connecticut, United States For the Bellator Bantamweight World Championship.
Win 29–3 Kai Asakura TKO (punches) Rizin 26 December 31, 2020 1 2:48 Saitama, Japan Won the Rizin Bantamweight Championship. Vacated the title in December 2022.
Loss 28–3 Kai Asakura KO (punches) Rizin 18 August 18, 2019 1 1:07 Nagoya, Japan Non-title bout.
Win 28–2 Darrion Caldwell Decision (unanimous) Bellator 222 June 14, 2019 5 5:00 New York City, New York, United States Won the Bellator Bantamweight World Championship. Vacated the title in November 2019 due to injury.
Win 27–2 Ben Nguyen KO (punches) Rizin 15 April 21, 2019 1 2:53 Yokohama, Japan Catchweight (60 kg) bout.
Win 26–2 Darrion Caldwell Submission (guillotine choke) Rizin 14 December 31, 2018 3 1:19 Saitama, Japan Won the inaugural Rizin Bantamweight Championship. Vacated the title in November 2019 due to injury.
Win 25–2 Hiromasa Ougikubo Decision (unanimous) Rizin 11 July 29, 2018 2 5:00 Saitama, Japan
Win 24–2 Ian McCall KO (punch) Rizin 10 May 6, 2018 1 0:09 Fukuoka, Japan
Win 23–2 Shintaro Ishiwatari KO (punches) Rizin World Grand Prix 2017: Final Round December 31, 2017 2 0:14 Saitama, Japan Won the 2017 Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix.
Win 22–2 Manel Kape Submission (arm-triangle choke) 3 4:27 2017 Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix Semifinal.
Win 21–2 Gabriel Oliveira TKO (punches) Rizin World Grand Prix 2017: 2nd Round December 29, 2017 1 4:30 Saitama, Japan 2017 Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix Quarterfinal.
Win 20–2 Hideo Tokoro KO (punches) Rizin World Grand Prix 2017: Opening Round - Part 1 July 30, 2017 1 1:49 Saitama, Japan Return to Bantamweight. 2017 Rizin Bantamweight Grand Prix First Round.
Win 19–2 Yuki Motoya Decision (unanimous) Rizin FF 5: Sakura April 16, 2017 2 5:00 Yokohama, Japan
Win 18–2 Ali Bagautinov Decision (unanimous) UFC Fight Night: Mousasi vs. Hall 2 November 19, 2016 3 5:00 Belfast, Northern Ireland
Win 17–2 Neil Seery Decision (unanimous) UFC Fight Night: Overeem vs. Arlovski May 8, 2016 3 5:00 Rotterdam, Netherlands
Win 16–2 Chico Camus Decision (unanimous) UFC Fight Night: Barnett vs. Nelson September 27, 2015 3 5:00 Saitama, Japan
Loss 15–2 Demetrious Johnson Submission (armbar) UFC 186 April 25, 2015 5 4:59 Montreal, Quebec, Canada For the UFC Flyweight Championship.
Win 15–1 Louis Gaudinot Decision (unanimous) UFC 182 January 3, 2015 3 5:00 Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Win 14–1 Jon delos Reyes TKO (punches) UFC Fight Night: Hunt vs. Nelson September 20, 2014 1 3:48 Saitama, Japan
Win 13–1 Darrell Montague Decision (unanimous) UFC Fight Night: Brown vs. Silva May 10, 2014 3 5:00 Cincinnati, Ohio, United States Flyweight debut.
Win 12–1 Dustin Pague TKO (punches) UFC 166 October 19, 2013 2 3:51 Houston, Texas, United States
Win 11–1 Shintaro Ishiwatari TKO (punches) Vale Tudo Japan 2nd June 22, 2013 5 0:41 Tokyo, Japan Defended the Shooto Bantamweight Championship.
Win 10–1 Hiromasa Ougikubo Submission (rear-naked choke) Shooto: 2nd Round 2013 March 16, 2013 2 1:35 Tokyo, Japan Won the Shooto Bantamweight Championship.
Win 9–1 Ian Loveland Decision (unanimous) Vale Tudo Japan 1st December 24, 2012 3 5:00 Tokyo, Japan
Win 8–1 Manabu Inoue Decision (unanimous) Shooto: 8th Round July 16, 2012 3 5:00 Tokyo, Japan
Win 7–1 Tetsu Suzuki TKO (punches) Shooto: 3rd Round March 10, 2012 1 2:06 Tokyo, Japan
Loss 6–1 Masakatsu Ueda Decision (majority) Shooto: Survivor Tournament Final January 8, 2012 3 5:00 Tokyo, Japan
Win 6–0 Naohiro Mizuno KO (punches) Shooto: Shootor's Legacy 4 September 23, 2011 2 3:26 Tokyo, Japan
Win 5–0 Yuta Nezu KO (punch) Shooto: Shootor's Legacy 3 July 18, 2011 1 3:17 Tokyo, Japan
Win 4–0 Takahiro Hosoi TKO (punches) Shooto: Shooto Tradition 2011 April 29, 2011 1 1:06 Tokyo, Japan
Win 3–0 Seiji Akao TKO (punches) Shooto: The Rookie Tournament 2010 Final December 18, 2010 2 0:43 Tokyo, Japan Won the Shooto 2010 Rookie Tournament.
Win 2–0 Keita Ishibashi TKO (doctor stoppage) Shooto: Gig Tokyo 5 August 7, 2010 1 2:23 Tokyo, Japan
Win 1–0 Ranki Kawana Decision (unanimous) Shooto: Kitazawa Shooto Vol. 3 May 9, 2010 2 5:00 Tokyo, Japan

Amateur mixed martial arts record

[edit]
Res. Record Opponent Method Event Date Round Time Location Notes
Win 4–0 Sakuma Kenta Decision (unanimous) 6th East Japan Amateur Shooto Open Tournament December 20, 2009 2 3:00 Sagamihara, Japan Won the East Japan Amateur Shooto Tournament.
Win 3–0 Kawahara Yu Decision (unanimous) 6th East Japan Amateur Shooto Open Tournament December 20, 2009 1 4:00 Sagamihara, Japan East Japan Amateur Shooto Tournament Semi-finals.
Win 2–0 Uoi Mamoru TKO (injury) 6th East Japan Amateur Shooto Open Tournament December 20, 2009 1 0:25 Sagamihara, Japan East Japan Amateur Shooto Tournament Quarter-finals.
Win 1–0 Naito Naiki Decision (unanimous) 6th East Japan Amateur Shooto Open Tournament December 20, 2009 1 4:00 Sagamihara, Japan East Japan Amateur Shooto Tournament First Round.

Kickboxing record

[edit]
0 wins (0 KOs), 1 losses
Result Record Opponent Method Event Date Round Time Location Notes
Loss 0–1 Tenshin Nasukawa Decision (unanimous) Rizin 13 September 30, 2018 3 3:00 Saitama, Japan
Legend
  Win
  Loss
  Draw/No contest

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ ""The supernova" The possibility that Kyoji Horiguchi showed in the debut match of UFC". sportsnavi(Japanese HP). Archived from the original on 2014-10-29. Retrieved 2014-05-11.
  2. ^ "Kyoji Horiguchi Stops Kai Asakura In RIZIN FF 26 Rematch". lowkickmma.com. 2020-12-31.
  3. ^ "Fight Card - UFC Fight Night Barnett vs. Nelson". UFC.com. Retrieved September 27, 2015.
  4. ^ "Fight Card - UFC 186 Johnson vs. Horiguchi". UFC.com. Retrieved April 28, 2015.
  5. ^ "KRAZY BEE / 12 選手". shooto-mma.com. Retrieved 19 January 2021.
  6. ^ Guy Portman (December 29, 2018). "5 Things You Might Not Know About Kyoji Horiguchi". Sherdog.
  7. ^ "Kyoji Horiguchi - Official UFC Fighter Profile". UFC.com. Retrieved January 15, 2015.
  8. ^ "Kyoji Horiguchi Smashes Tetsu Suzuki at Shooto 2012 3rd Round". Sherdog. March 10, 2012. Retrieved 2012-03-18.
  9. ^ Raphael Garcia (February 21, 2017). "Horiguchi signs with (sic) Rizin Fighting". FanSided.com. Retrieved June 29, 2017.
  10. ^ "Kyoji Horiguchi". ufc.com. 14 September 2018. Retrieved 19 January 2021.
  11. ^ "堀口 恭司". shooto-mma.com. Retrieved 19 January 2021.
  12. ^ "「UFCで勝てば億万長者ですよ！」堀口恭司 釣りと格闘技インタビュー". ch.nicovideo.jp. Retrieved 19 January 2021.
  13. ^ a b Sebastian Stein (May 2, 2014). "Japan's Karate Kid: Kyoji Horiguchi". fightland.vice.com.
  14. ^ a b c d Blaine Henry (December 23, 2020). "Kyoji Horiguchi: The Inevitable Return". Fight-Library.com.
  15. ^ "【修斗】3年連続でクレイジービーから新人王＆MVPが誕生！元世界王者・門脇が矢地に判定勝利". gbring.com. Retrieved 19 January 2021.
  16. ^ "Kyoji Horiguchi Falls to Ueda". MMA-Japan. Archived from the original on 2012-03-19. Retrieved 2012-01-18.
  17. ^ Marchand, Dean (16 March 2013). "Bantamweight Prospect Kyoji Horiguchi Captures Gold, Caol Uno Wins at Shooto '2nd Round 2013'". Sherdog. Retrieved 19 March 2013.
  18. ^ "【VTJ】修斗vsパンクラス王者対決は堀口が最終ラウンドで劇的KO勝ち". efight.jp. 22 June 2013. Retrieved 19 January 2021.
  19. ^ Staff (2013-09-13). "Kyoji Horiguchi UFC Bound – Faces Dustin Pague At UFC 166". asianmma.com. Archived from the original on 2013-09-20. Retrieved 2013-09-13.
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