Every now and again, the UFC makes a fight announcement that gets the hardcore fans excited—and Dana White‘s latest move is no exception. As the promotion prepares for its historic debut in Baku, Azerbaijan, a familiar face makes his long-anticipated return to the Octagon. It’s been nearly a decade since his last appearance under the UFC banner, but his resume since then speaks volumes. A multi-organization champion, a global fan favorite, and a combat veteran with some truly spectacular fights who will now take on team Khabib Nurmagomedov. So, who is this mysterious legend making a comeback?
It’s none other than Japan’s finest, Kyoji Horiguchi. Horiguchi, a former flyweight title challenger who pushed Demetrious Johnson to the edge, now returns to the UFC with a six-fight unbeaten record to face Tagir Unlanbekov. In the years since his 2016 departure, ‘The Typhoon’ has won titles in both RIZIN and Bellator, defeating top-tier opponents such as Manel Kape and Kai Asakura. At 34, he may not be in his physical prime, but his skill set and combat IQ are still world-class. And on June 21, at UFC Baku, he returns to the Octagon to fight one of Dagestan’s most dangerous rising stars.
While Tagir Ulanbekov may not have the same global fame, make no mistake: he is a real threat. Ulanbekov, a proud member of Team Khabib, has quietly compiled a 5-1 UFC record and comes into this bout full of confidence. He most recently dominated rising contender Clayton Carpenter at UFC 311, controlling each round with his characteristic grappling pressure. A win here would not only be the biggest of his career, but it would also propel him into the top five of the flyweight rankings. And with the legend standing across from him, the stakes could not be any higher.
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Kyoji Horiguchi vs. Ulanbekov is a perfect storm of experience vs. momentum and name value vs. hunger. Dana White’s decision to re-sign the Japanese veteran is more than a nostalgic move; it’s an opportunity to reintroduce elite-level talent into a thriving flyweight division. And, with UFC Baku already building up to be one of the summer’s most fascinating events, this co-main event has given fans even more reason to circle June 21 in red. In fact, they couldn’t help but share their thoughts about the matchup on social media.
Fans give full approval to Dana White’s latest booking
Dana White appears to be on a roll this summer with such great bookings, and his most recent move could be one of the most quietly brilliant so far. A showdown between rising flyweight contender Tagir Ulanbekov and returning Japanese great Kyoji Horiguchi has diehard fans excited right away. Some termed it “impressive booking by the UFC,” while others simply let their passion take over with comments like “Great fight 
” and “banger fight.” How about the overall vibe? Surprise and eagerness. As one fan aptly put it, “This is wild.”
While many older fans jumped out of their seats upon hearing the news, others pointed out that Horiguchi’s absence from the UFC may have caused his name to fade for newer viewers. The man who was once regarded as one of the world’s fastest flyweights returns to an audience that may not remember his full potential. One commenter lamented, “To think we’re at a point where there’s a current generation of fans who don’t know who Horiguchi is,” while another added, “It’s sad to think many might not know who he is.” But the sentiment of nostalgia and respect was best described by a simple comment that read, “The forgotten legend finally returns.” It feels like a meeting of the old and modern, and fans are ready for it.
Of course, Ulanbekov isn’t just a placeholder in this scenario; he’s the type of fighter who could take advantage of this opportunity to make a significant statement. His clinical performance against Clayton Carpenter won him some respect, and now he’s being viewed as the man who can derail Horiguchi’s comeback. A few fans warned Horiguchi due to Ulanbekov’s typical Dagestani fighter appearance, saying, “Beware bearded guy with no mustache.” There were many other fans who completely supported him. “Easy tagir win,” one comment stated confidently. Another commented, “Ulanbekov is underrated. He’ll definitely win.” Whether you’re interested in Horiguchi’s legacy or Ulanbekov’s ascension, UFC Baku feels like a must-watch. What do you think? Who will win the fight? Let us know in the comments.
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