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Reigning UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja keeps all options open when defending his title — even if it means stepping into the cage against his long-time training partner and teammate, Kyoji Horiguchi.
Pantoja, last seen dominantly submitting Kai Asakura at UFC 310 in Las Vegas, has no bout currently scheduled. However, the Brazilian has been linked to a potential title defense against Kai Kara-France this summer during International Fight Week. The outcome of that fight could determine the next contender — and the man waiting in the wings may very well be Horiguchi.
The Japanese superstar and former Bellator bantamweight champion recently announced his UFC return during RIZIN 50, after defeating Nkazimulo Zulu by a unanimous decision in December. Now back in the UFC, Horiguchi is being floated as a future title challenger — a prospect that Pantoja not only welcomes but cherishes.
Speaking to MMA Fighting, Pantoja expressed gratitude and respect toward his teammate, emphasizing that a bout between the two would be for the title only, and come from a place of mutual appreciation rather than rivalry.
“We have 100 fighters [at ATT]. All the time we have teammates fighting. But Kyoji Horiguchi helped me get this belt. If I don’t have Kyoji Horiguchi, I don’t know if I have the opportunity to fight for the belt... And it’s gonna be a pleasure if I fight with him for the belt. Just for the belt... It’s like a real gift to have Kyoji on my side.”
Pantoja also highlighted their intense sparring sessions at American Top Team, noting that their training frequently draws attention from fellow fighters at the gym.
If Horiguchi earns his shot, fans could witness one of the most respectful and technical championship clashes in UFC flyweight history — a battle between teammates driven by honor and excellence.