Tatsuro Taira, a top flyweight prospect, aims to become the No. 1 contender by defeating former champion Brandon Moreno at UFC 323, following his recovery from a previous loss.
Tatsuro Taira has been hailed as a top prospect in the flyweight division for a while now. He’s eyeing the No. 1 contender spot after his bout at UFC 323.
At just 25, Taira boasts a 17-1 record, with seven UFC wins. On Saturday, he faces former champ Brandon Moreno, a chance to stand out in the 125-pound division.
Facing Moreno, a name carrying weight, Taira is optimistic about a title shot if he wins. “Brandon Moreno is the best fighter I’ve faced in the UFC,” Taira shared with MMA Fighting. “I’m excited for this big opportunity.”
The flyweight class is heating up with new talent. Taira is confident he’ll be the next contender among them.
Taira recently bounced back from his first career loss, a close split-decision against Brandon Royval in 2024. He followed it with a dominant submission win, ending his 16-fight undefeated streak.
Few fighters retire undefeated, and Taira isn’t dwelling on that single blemish. In fact, he feels liberated from the pressure of maintaining a perfect record.
“I was happy with my record,” Taira said. “But I’m free from the pressure of perfection now. The first fight after a loss was tough, though.”
Against Moreno, Taira is ready for anything, planning to keep the former champ guessing. He respects Moreno but knows he’s not invincible.
“He’s shown strength against top fighters,” Taira noted. “But he’s not dominating. I hope to catch him off guard.”
With the flyweight title up for grabs soon after Taira’s fight, he’s keenly interested in the division’s future.
Taira believes champion Alexandre Pantoja will defend his title against Joshua Van, predicting a finish in the second or third round.
He hopes for a similar finish himself, aiming to be next in line for the title in 2026. “Nothing but respect to Brandon,” Taira said. “But I plan to secure a big win and become the next contender.”