Kyoji Horiguchi vs. Nkazimulo Zulu – Odds and Match Preview
The upcoming MMA match between Kyoji Horiguchi and Nkazimulo Zulu is set to take place on December 31, 2024, as part of the RIZIN.49 event, marking a high-stakes clash for the RIZIN Flyweight Championship.
Kyoji Horiguchi vs. Nkazimulo Zulu
Kyoji Horiguchi is the clear favorite in his upcoming match against Nkazimulo Zulu. Most bookmakers are offering odds that heavily favor Horiguchi, indicating that he is expected to win the fight. Avid sports fans can bet and check out sports and esports crypto betting sites right here.
For example, some bookmakers have Horiguchi at 1/4 odds, while Zulu is listed as the underdog at 11/43. This means that a $4 bet on Horiguchi would only yield a $1 profit if he wins, while a $4 bet on Zulu would result in an $11 profit if he pulls off the upset. Other bookmakers show similar odds, such as Horiguchi is priced at 1.22 (equivalent to -455 in American odds), while Zulu is at 4.00 (+300). These odds suggest that bookmakers give Horiguchi about an 82% chance of winning the fight, compared to only an 18% chance for Zulu.
Kyoji Horiguchi is one of Japan’s most accomplished MMA fighters. A former UFC title contender, he has held titles in both RIZIN and Bellator, making history as the first fighter to simultaneously hold bantamweight belts in both promotions.
Known for his karate-based striking and well-rounded skillset, Horiguchi has a professional record of 33 wins, 5 losses, and 1 no-contest. He currently holds the RIZIN Flyweight Championship, which he won in December 2023. Additionally, he is coming off a dominant win over Sergio Pettis, avenging a prior loss, in June 2024/ He now aims to defend his title against Zulu on New Year’s Eve.
Kyoji Horiguchi utilizes a karate-based style with exceptional speed, footwork, and striking precision. He complements his stand-up game with strong grappling skills.
‘King Shaka’ Nkazimulo Zulu is a South African fighter with a background in Kyokushin karate and Muay Thai. A two-division EFC champion, both bantamweight and flyweight, Zulu transitioned to RIZIN in 2024 and made an impressive debut with a TKO victory over Jo Arai.
With a record of 16 wins, 6 losses, and 1 draw, Zulu is known for his explosive striking and finishing ability. This fight represents his biggest opportunity yet, as he aims to return the RIZIN Flyweight title to South Africa.
Nkazimulo Zulu brings a striking-heavy approach rooted in Kyokushin karate and Muay Thai. He is known for his dynamic kicks, spinning techniques, and knockout power. While primarily a striker, Zulu has also demonstrated submission skills, with several guillotine choke victories on his record.
With both fighters’ striking backgrounds, this RIZIN title match is expected to be battled on the feet. Fans can expect an exciting bout with high stakes on New Year’s Eve as both fighters aim to showcase their skills on one of MMA’s biggest stages.
