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UFC Event Suffers Major Blow as Fan Favorite Fighter Withdraws from Highly Anticipated Return

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Michael Aldon | Last updated May 20, 2025 9:06 PM ET

The UFC flyweight weight class has seen its share of struggles, from Dana White himself considering shutting down the whole division altogether, to the UFC placing the division’s ranked fights on the prelims. Because of the general casual MMA fanbase’s disinterest in the flyweight division, the UFC is constantly recruiting talent from outside of the organization to inject excitement and create fresh matchups. Sometimes, however, they recruit these

The UFC’s inaugural event in Azerbaijan has been dealt a significant setback just one month out, as former flyweight title challenger and Japanese MMA star Kyoji Horiguchi has withdrawn from his scheduled bout against no. 10 ranked Tagir Ulanbekov. The news, first reported by Red Corner MMA, was later confirmed by multiple outlets, leaving fans disappointed and forcing the promotion to scramble for a replacement.

Horiguchi has yet to comment on his withdrawal, and his reason for pulling out has yet to be revealed by him or the UFC.

Horiguchi, a former RIZIN and Bellator champion, was set to make his long-awaited return to MMA’s premier promotion after nearly a decade away from the UFC Octagon, with his last appearance dating back to 2016. His withdrawal has left a glaring hole in the UFC Baku lineup.

Stepping in for Horiguchi on short notice is unranked Kazakh prospect Azat Maksum, who holds a 15-1 record and is 1-1 in the UFC. While Maksum brings an aggressive style, the matchup lacks the prestige of Horiguchi’s return, leaving Ulanbekov with a less high-profile opportunity to climb the flyweight rankings

The loss of Horiguchi is a major blow to the event’s international appeal, as the 34-year-old veteran is one of the most recognizable names in Asian MMA. During his initial UFC run, Horiguchi amassed a 7-1 record, with his sole loss coming against Demetrious Johnson in a flyweight title fight. Since then, he has dominated in RIZIN and Bellator, becoming a crossover star.

His return was poised to add significant star power to UFC Baku, which is headlined by Jamahal Hill vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. and features a striking-heavy main event between Rafael Fiziev and Ignacio Bahamondes.

Horiguchi’s absence undeniably decreases the card’s allure, particularly for Japanese and international fans who were eager to see his UFC comeback. The promotion will need to rely on the remaining bouts to deliver excitement in Azerbaijan’s historic debut.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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