Former BRAVE Combat Federation Bantamweight Champion Jose “Shorty” Torres delivered an electrifying performance at RIZIN 49 on New Year’s Eve, securing a pivotal win that closed out 2024 in style. Representing BRAVE CF on Japanese soil, Torres proved why he remains one of the promotion’s top talents, and now his sights are firmly set on making waves in the Flyweight division.
After the fight, Torres reiterated his decision to return to Flyweight, where he has spent the majority of his BRAVE CF career. His latest victory not only validated his ability to compete at Flyweight but also sent a clear message to his competitors in the division.
“I’m happy that I’m ending the year strong,” Torres shared. “I want to go back to Flyweight. This fight was a test to see if I could make Flyweight, and I made the weight pretty easily and was able to hydrate well. I believe my next fight will be at Flyweight.”
BRAVE CF, widely regarded as home to one of the most competitive Flyweight rosters in MMA, has yet to crown its inaugural Flyweight Champion. Torres’ re-entry into the division raises the stakes, as the former Bantamweight Champion aims to add another title to his collection.
Double-champion status isn’t Torres’ only goal. He’s also eager to represent BRAVE CF in Japan again and expressed interest in participating in the RIZIN Flyweight Grand Prix. Torres even called out his former teammate and Japanese MMA icon, Kyoji Horiguchi, for a potential showdown.
“Hopefully, we can collaborate with BRAVE CF and RIZIN again, do the Flyweight Grand Prix, and fight some of the greats like Kyoji Horiguchi. That would be very exciting. I used to train with him at American Top Team,” Torres said.
Horiguchi, a household name in Japanese MMA with an impressive record of 34-5, also scored a victory at RIZIN 49, setting the stage for a high-stakes clash between the two former teammates. Horiguchi, unbeaten since 2022, would present a formidable challenge for Torres, who is determined to build on his momentum.
With 2024 wrapped up on a high note, Jose “Shorty” Torres is primed to take 2025 by storm. Whether it’s claiming Flyweight gold or delivering fireworks in a potential matchup with Horiguchi, Torres is ready to etch his name in MMA history.
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