If this was 5 years ago, I might have a different pick here. Kyoji was a little young for his first UFC stink and i think a little too old for his second. He is very fun and a great addition to the roster, but this is a bad matchup. A big strong wrestler who can get him against a age to take him down is not a recipe for success. I don't know why the UFC did this to him. They should give him Mitch Raposo or a fun striker that will bang so he can showcase a bit and build on the Japanese fanbase. Tagir is the pick and I expect some wet blanket boos.

Kyoji Horiguchi

Kyoji Horiguchi is not a name everyone will remember, but he a long standing staple of the world's 125lb division. He actually fought DJ for the UFC flyweight title 10 years ago. His officially UFC record is an incredible 10-1 but he did leave before hitting the international circuit. Style wise he is a fast, powerful and athletic striker who has great footwork and loves to bounce in and out of range. He can wrestle as well but typically a backup plan.

Tagir Ulanbekov

Tagir Ulanbekov is a dominant come forward wrestler with decent striking. He has a nice jab and right behind it is a takedown attempt. 5 of his 6 of UFC wins were very grappling heavy with 15 takedowns and 2 submissions. He isn't very athletic or fast, but he is strong and has great control. He is coming off the very close win over Azat Maksum where he couldn't get a takedown but continued to press forward. It is listed as a 30-27, but that doesn't accurately depict how close it was.