Tatsuro Taira Makes a Strong Comeback at UFC Fight Night
UFC flyweight contender Tatsuro Taira proved his worth after his first professional stumble, dominating Hyun Sung Park in the main event of UFC Fight Night. Taira (17-1) submitted Park (10-1) via a choke in the second round, marking his triumphant return after his split decision loss to Brandon Royval in October. The young Japanese prodigy, 25 years old, showcased his best version, achieving his fifth finish since 2022, the most in the division. The 125-pound matchup was made with little anticipation. Taira was originally scheduled to face Amir Albazi, who withdrew the previous week for undisclosed medical reasons. The UFC called Park, who was scheduled to fight Steve Erceg. The fight proved to be a complete mismatch. Taira knocked Park down with a right hand in the first minute and quickly went for the back on the ground. Park, although he showed composure to recover from the blow and avoid Taira’s submission attempts, could not break free from his opponent’s grip or get back on his feet.In the second round, Taira wasted no time in taking Park down to the ground again, and this time, Park couldn’t counter Taira’s grappling superiority, quickly submitting to the hold. Taira has finished eight of his 17 victories by submission and five by knockout.
This victory raises Taira’s UFC record to 7-1. Before the fight, Taira was ranked sixth in the UFC flyweight rankings. Had he faced Albazi, he would have had the opportunity to fight the number 4 contender in the division. Park, who signed with the company in 2023, arrived at the event unranked.
