Rei Tsuruya hopes he's finally done enough to earn a crack at an opponent with a number next to their name.
At UFC Fight Night 286 in Shanghai, Tsuruya (12-1 MMA, 3-1 UFC) showed why he was heavily favored as he quickly drowned and tapped opponent Kevin Borjas (11-6 MMA, 2-5 UFC), winning the bout in 4:14 by rear-naked choke.
"I am simply happy, with my performance and the outcome," Tsuruya recently told MMA Junkie through a translator. "Two straight finishes in the first round, it really gives me confidence moving forward in my career with the UFC. For now, I am happy, and back to work. ... I was confident that I could dominate on the ground. My body reacted on its own and was making that takedown."
Tsuruya, 24, is viewed by many experts as one
of the flyweight division's most promising prospects, particularly given his age and ability to finish fights. His stock has risen even further, as the only man to defeat him, Joshua Van, now hold UFC flyweight gold.
"I believe I am capable of being at the top of the division," Tsuruya said. "It’s also a lot about luck, timing and the matchups you get, but I’m doing everything I can to develop my skills and be ready for whatever is next."
As for what's next, Tsuruya hopes that back-to-back wins since his unanimous decision loss to Van has proven he's worthy of a marquee matchup next.
"Yes, hopefully I’ll fight someone around No. 10 in the rankings, and take it one by one," Tsuruya said. "... (I want) nobody specific. I hope to fight someone ranked 10-15. I’ll fight anyone ahead of me in the rankings. The division is strong, so I believe there are a lot of really entertaining matchups for the fans. ... December would be ideal."
He's taking it step by step, but Tsuruya admits he's already thought about what a rematch vs. Van may look like in the future. He has a little ways to go, but Tsuruya is confident he'll find his way to the title eventually.
"I think three straight wins from here should get me a shot at the title," Tsuruya said. "... You never know until it happens, but I am sure it will be a different fight. If I can take his back, I can finish him."
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Surging Rei Tsuruya hopes UFC top-10 opponent was earned in Shanghai
