You won’t believe what Tatsuro Taira’s flyweight title at UFC 328 could do for Japan

UFC could return to Japan if Tatsuro Taira wins the title, says Dana White

Taira earned his shot at the belt after knocking out former champion Brandon Moreno at UFC 323.

The Japanese star is now 18-1 as a pro, having dropped only a close split decision against Brandon Royval inside the Octagon.

His only loss came by split decision to Brandon Royval. Now, as he sits on the edge of history, Taira has more than just a title on the line when he steps into the cage at UFC 328. He’s carrying an entire nation’s hopes with him.

If he does become champion, Dana White says it could lead to the promotion holding an event in Japan for the first time since 2017.

Speaking on CBS Mornings, White said: “It’s been a while since we’ve done a fight in Japan. There’s not a lot of talent coming out of Japan like there was back in the late ’90s, early 2000s.”

“If this kid wins and becomes world champ,” he continued. “We could go do a fight in Japan again.”

Some remain sceptical about White’s comments. Fighters like Dricus du Plessis and Ilia Topuria were expected to bring events to their home countries after winning titles but haven’t yet managed it.

The UFC often relies on host nations covering substantial site fees for international events. If Taira is going to bring an event back home, it may come down to whether Japan is willing to foot that bill.