Horiguchi vs. Almabayev Set for UFC Qatar Nov. 21

Kyoji Horiguchi will face Asu Almabayev on Nov. 21 at UFC Qatar, a fresh flyweight contender matchup that lands right in the middle of a division searching for its next title challenger.

The booking comes just days after Joshua Van defended his grip on the 125-pound throne at UFC 331, beating former champion Alexandre Pantoja by decision. Van is expected to run it back with Manel Kape next, which leaves the rest of the flyweight pack, Horiguchi and Almabayev included, jockeying for position behind them.

Why This Fight Matters For The Flyweight Rankings

Horiguchi vs. Almabayev is a genuine crossroads fight for two men who were both a win away from title contention before hitting a snag. Horiguchi, a former UFC title challenger and RIZIN champion, was in the middle of rebuilding his case for a shot at gold when he ran into Manel Kape. He had dominated Tagir Ulanbekov and Amir Albazi to get back into the picture, and he was picking Kape apart on the feet and on the mat before one right hand ended the fight. That loss stalled his momentum, but a name like Almabayev is exactly the kind of opponent that can get him right back in the mix.

Almabayev is riding the best form of his UFC run. He has won three straight since his own setback against Kape, a fight that turned controversial due to multiple fouls, and his last outing produced a Suloev stretch submission over Charles Johnson at UFC Baku. At 7-1 in his last eight, Almabayev is close to forcing his way into a title conversation, and beating a name as established as Horiguchi would do exactly that.

What It Means For Bettors

This is a striker-versus-grappler puzzle that should draw plenty of pre-fight betting interest once lines open. Horiguchi's ability to mix elite counter striking with underrated wrestling has given him success against pressure fighters in the past, and Almabayev's submission game, highlighted by that Suloev stretch finish, means neither man wants to get careless on the ground. Expect Horiguchi to open as the favorite given his name recognition and finishing power, but sharp bettors will want to watch how the line moves once fight week arrives, since Almabayev's recent form and momentum make this closer than a straight name-value line might suggest.

UFC Qatar is still filling out, marking the promotion's second card in the country after last November's event topped by Arman Tsarukyan and Dan Hooker.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do Kyoji Horiguchi and Asu Almabayev fight?

Kyoji Horiguchi and Asu Almabayev are scheduled to fight on Nov. 21 at UFC Qatar.

What is Kyoji Horiguchi's UFC flyweight status after his loss to Manel Kape?

Kyoji Horiguchi is looking to bounce back from a knockout loss to Manel Kape by facing surging contender Asu Almabayev at UFC Qatar on Nov. 21.

What is Asu Almabayev's recent form heading into UFC Qatar?

Asu Almabayev has won three straight fights, most recently finishing Charles Johnson with a Suloev stretch submission at UFC Baku, and will face Kyoji Horiguchi next at UFC Qatar on Nov. 21.