The upcoming fight between Kyoji Horiguchi and Asu Almabayev is set to create waves in the flyweight division. This highly anticipated matchup will take place on November 21 in Doha, Qatar. Both fighters are top contenders eager to establish their dominance and secure a path toward title contention.
Kyoji Horiguchi Aims for Comeback
Kyoji Horiguchi is on a mission to bounce back after experiencing a setback in his last bout. He faced Manel Kape in June and suffered a third-round TKO, halting his brief winning streak in the UFC. This defeat marked Horiguchi’s first loss since his return to the organization in 2025, adding pressure to perform well in his upcoming fight against Almabayev.
Horiguchi’s journey through the UFC has been a rollercoaster. After an impressive run, he left the promotion in February 2017. Over the next several years, he added numerous accolades to his name, including championships in organizations like RIZIN and Bellator. Notably, Horiguchi challenged Demetrious Johnson for the UFC flyweight title at UFC 186 back in 2015 but fell short via submission in the fifth round. Following that loss, he rebounded with three consecutive victories before departing the UFC.
Upon his return to the Octagon, Horiguchi showcased his skills by submitting Tagir Ulanbekov and earning a unanimous decision over Amir Albazi. However, his recent loss to Kape has ignited a fire in him to reclaim his winning ways. Currently, he holds an impressive professional record of 36 wins, 6 losses, and 1 no contest, setting the stage for a critical showdown on November 21.
Asu Almabayev on the Rise
Asu Almabayev is looking to extend his winning streak and solidify his standing among the elite in the flyweight class. Entering this matchup with a triumphant three-fight winning streak, Almabayev is a fighter to watch. His most recent victory came against Charles Johnson, whom he submitted in June, earning himself a Performance of the Night bonus for his impressive skills.
Since joining the UFC in early 2023, Almabayev has proven himself as a formidable contender. He has achieved victory in seven of his eight UFC appearances, with his only loss occurring against Manel Kape in March 2025. With a robust record of 24 wins and 3 losses, Almabayev is determined to further enhance his resume by defeating Horiguchi and moving closer to a title opportunity.
The matchup between Horiguchi and Almabayev promises to be a thrilling encounter. Both athletes come equipped with unique fighting styles and a wealth of experience. Fans can expect a display of striking finesse, grappling exchanges, and high stakes as they collide on November 21 at the ABHA Arena in Doha.
In conclusion, the upcoming fight is not just a battle for wins but also a significant moment for both fighters in their quests for championship glory. While Horiguchi seeks redemption, Almabayev is on the brink of ascending to the top ranks of the flyweight division. As the date approaches, anticipation grows for what could be an unforgettable night of UFC action.