Alexandre Pantoja has expressed his enthusiasm for a future title defense against his teammate, Kyoji Horiguchi, should Horiguchi successfully return to the UFC after impressive championship reigns in RIZIN and Bellator.
While the UFC has not yet scheduled Horiguchi`s comeback fight or announced his opponent, Pantoja envisions a potential clash with his American Top Team training partner down the line. This matchup would become a possibility if Horiguchi secures a series of victories upon his return to the octagon.
“At ATT, we have a vast roster of fighters,” Pantoja commented in an interview. “It’s common for teammates to face each other. However, Kyoji Horiguchi played a crucial role in my journey to becoming champion. I owe him a great deal. His presence and support during my training camps have been invaluable. I believe his guidance was instrumental in securing my title opportunity and ultimately becoming a champion. I am constantly grateful for Kyoji’s contributions, as his support has extended to my family as well.”
Pantoja continued, “I always take the opportunity to express my gratitude to Kyoji for everything he has done for me. Fighting him for the title would be an honor. It would strictly be about the championship; I can`t imagine fighting Kyoji otherwise. Competing against him for the belt would feel like a special reward, a testament to our shared journey. I hope to maintain my hold on the title and await the opportunity to face Kyoji. Our sparring sessions at the gym are always a spectacle, with everyone pausing their own training to watch. It’s a privilege to have Kyoji in my corner.”
Pantoja mentioned that Horiguchi already has a UFC fight lined up, though he couldn`t disclose specifics about the opponent or date. Regarding his own next fight, following successful title defenses against Brandon Moreno, Steve Erceg, and Kai Asakura, the flyweight champion from Brazil is open to facing any challenger.
“One aspect I appreciate about my division is the abundance of opportunities,” Pantoja stated. “I’ve faced and defeated top contenders like Brandon Royval multiple times and Brandon Moreno three times. Then, rising contenders like Erceg and champions from other organizations like Asakura are brought into the mix. It feels like everyone in my division has a chance to compete at the highest level, which is exciting. The uncertainty of my next opponent – whether it will be Manel Kape, Brandon Moreno, Brandon Royval, Kai Kara-France, or even discussions around Merab Dvalishvili – is something I embrace. I thrive on the fact that opportunities are available for many.”
Pantoja addressed the topic of UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili, who is set to defend his title in a rematch with Sean O’Malley in early June. Pantoja had previously considered a potential move up to challenge O’Malley when he was champion. However, Pantoja now feels his focus should remain on the flyweight division, stating, “I have my own division to prioritize.” With UFC 316 already featuring two title fights, including the bantamweight clash and Kayla Harrison’s challenge for Julianna Peña`s title, Pantoja proposed competing at UFC 317 in Las Vegas on June 28.
“My primary goal is to win my next fight,” Pantoja emphasized. “I don’t currently see myself as the world’s best fighter. Being in Brazil and away from my training camp at American Top Team for ten days disrupts my preparation. I need to return to ATT, where I know everyone, especially Kyoji Horiguchi, will push me to my limits. This mindset of constantly striving to improve is what makes me resilient.”
“While I may not feel like the best fighter in the world at this moment, I am determined to be in peak form and ready to claim that title again when I sign my fight contract and the date is set. That`s my constant aspiration: to once again be recognized as the world champion. With a fight date on the horizon, my focus will be entirely on achieving that championship level again.”
