Tatsuro Taira has an opportunity this weekend at UFC 328 to make history by becoming the first Japanese UFC champion, should he defeat current flyweight titleholder Joshua Van.
With an impressive professional MMA record of 18-1 and a 8-1 standing within the UFC, Taira has secured the majority of his victories by stoppage. His most recent performance at UFC 323 saw him earn a decisive win over former champion Brandon Moreno, securing him a shot at the title.
Joshua Van claimed the flyweight championship on the same night Taira defeated Moreno. Now, Taira has the chance to unseat Van and bring a UFC belt back to Japan.
During a media day event, Taira expressed his determination:
“It’s my dream, and also the dream of Japanese fans. Japanese fans have been eagerly awaiting a UFC belt. I will win and bring the UFC belt back to Japan. I am ready to seize this opportunity and I must be the one. After I win the belt, I aspire to help bring a major UFC event to Japan.”
Dana White’s Plans for Japan Contingent on Taira’s Victory
UFC President Dana White has conveyed a significant promise to Tatsuro Taira and the Japanese fanbase. If Taira is successful in winning the flyweight strap this weekend, there’s a strong likelihood the UFC will consider hosting another event in Japan in the near future. White shared his thoughts with CBS Mornings:
“If this kid wins, we could go do a fight in Japan again.”