Rei Tsuruya: UFC, Record, Sherdog, Next Fight, VS Van, Wikipedia

Japanese mixed martial arts prospect Rei Tsuruya has quickly become one of the most talked-about young fighters in the UFC flyweight division. Known for his elite grappling, relentless wrestling pressure, and undefeated run before entering the UFC spotlight, Tsuruya represents the next generation of Japanese MMA talent.

At just 23 years old, Tsuruya has already built an impressive résumé through regional promotions, Road to UFC success, and appearances on major UFC cards. While his first professional defeat came against rising star Joshua Van, many analysts still view him as a future contender capable of challenging the division’s elite.

This article covers everything fans need to know about Rei Tsuruya, including his UFC career, professional record, Sherdog rankings, next fight details, Wikipedia-style biography, and his memorable showdown against Joshua Van.

Who is Rei Tsuruya?

Rei Tsuruya is a Japanese professional mixed martial artist competing in the UFC’s flyweight division. Born on June 22, 2002, in Chiba, Japan, Tsuruya began training in combat sports at a young age and rapidly developed into one of Japan’s most promising prospects.

He trains with The Blackbelt Japan, the same organization associated with fellow Japanese UFC contender Tatsuro Taira. The gym has become a major force in Japanese MMA, producing elite-level fighters capable of competing on the global stage.

Tsuruya first gained international attention through the Road to UFC tournament, where he showcased his wrestling-heavy style and exceptional submission skills.

Rei Tsuruya Wikipedia-Style Profile

Full Name

Rei Tsuruya

Nickname

Not widely publicized

Nationality

Japanese

Date of Birth

June 22, 2002

Age

23 years old

Height

5-foot-7 (170 cm)

Weight Class

Flyweight (125 pounds)

Team

The Blackbelt Japan / Paraestra Matsudo

Fighting Style

Wrestling, Grappling, Submission Fighting

Professional Debut

2021

Rei Tsuruya UFC Journey

Tsuruya’s rise through the UFC system was unique. Rather than entering directly through Dana White’s Contender Series, he gained recognition through Road to UFC, a tournament designed to identify Asia’s top MMA prospects.

His dominant grappling performances immediately caught the attention of UFC matchmakers and fans alike. Tsuruya consistently controlled opponents on the ground, displaying a level of wrestling rarely seen among young flyweights.

After securing his UFC contract, he made his promotional debut against Carlos Hernandez at UFC 303. Tsuruya won via unanimous decision, demonstrating composure and technical skill under the bright lights of the UFC.

The victory solidified his status as one of the top prospects in the flyweight division.

Rei Tsuruya UFC Record

According to Sherdog and major MMA databases, Rei Tsuruya owns a professional MMA record of 10 wins and 1 loss.

Record Breakdown

• Wins: 10
• Losses: 1
• Knockouts: 4
• Submissions: 4
• Decisions: 2

His finishing rate is particularly impressive. Eight of his ten victories have come inside the distance, showcasing both striking power and submission ability.

Why the Record Stands Out

Unlike many prospects who accumulate wins against inexperienced competition, Tsuruya faced increasingly difficult opponents throughout his development. His performances in Road to UFC and subsequent UFC appearances demonstrated that his skills translate effectively to the highest level.

His wrestling pressure remains his biggest weapon. Many opponents struggle to defend his takedowns, and once Tsuruya secures top position, he controls fights with remarkable efficiency.

Rei Tsuruya Sherdog Profile and Rankings

Sherdog is one of MMA’s most respected databases, and Tsuruya’s profile highlights just how balanced his skill set is.

According to Sherdog:

• Professional Record: 10-1
• KO/TKO Wins: 4
• Submission Wins: 4
• Decision Wins: 2
• Weight Class: Flyweight
• Team: The Blackbelt Japan

His statistics show a fighter capable of winning in multiple ways. Unlike specialists who rely solely on striking or grappling, Tsuruya possesses a complete MMA game.

FightMatrix rankings have also placed him among the top emerging flyweights globally, reflecting the respect he has earned within the MMA community.

Rei Tsuruya vs Joshua Van

The most significant fight of Tsuruya’s career so far came against rising UFC star Joshua Van at UFC 313.

Heading into the matchup, Tsuruya was undefeated and viewed as one of the promotion’s best young prospects. However, Van presented a difficult stylistic challenge due to his elite striking and takedown defense.

What Happened?

Throughout the fight, Tsuruya repeatedly attempted to implement his wrestling-heavy game plan. While he managed some moments of control, Van consistently defended takedowns and outlanded him on the feet.

All three judges scored the bout 30-27 in favor of Van. The fight marked Tsuruya’s first professional defeat.

Lessons Learned

Although he lost, the fight provided valuable experience. Many young prospects struggle when facing elite opposition for the first time.

The defeat exposed areas where Tsuruya can improve:

• Striking volume
• Cage cutting
• Takedown setups
• Distance management

At only 23 years old, he still has ample time to develop.

Impact on His Career

Rather than hurting his reputation, the loss highlighted how high his ceiling remains. Van later evolved into one of the UFC’s top flyweights and eventually captured championship gold.

Because of Van’s continued success, Tsuruya’s loss appears far more understandable in hindsight.

Rei Tsuruya’s Fighting Style

Elite Wrestling

The foundation of Tsuruya’s game is wrestling.

He excels at:

• Double-leg takedowns
• Single-leg entries
• Chain wrestling
• Positional control

Opponents often spend significant portions of fights defending takedown attempts.

Submission Threat

Tsuruya is dangerous once fights hit the ground.

His submission arsenal includes:

• Rear-naked chokes
• Armbars
• Triangle chokes
• Scramble submissions

Four of his professional victories have come via submission.

Improving Striking

While wrestling remains his strength, his striking continues to evolve.

Recent training footage and UFC appearances suggest improvements in:

• Boxing combinations
• Counter punches
• Defensive movement
• Kickboxing fundamentals

These developments could make him a much more dangerous fighter in future matchups.

Rei Tsuruya Next Fight

One of the biggest questions among fans is: Who is Rei Tsuruya fighting next?

Recent reports indicate that Tsuruya is scheduled to compete at UFC Macau against Luis Gurule after opponent changes affected the card. Initially, another matchup had been discussed before adjustments were made.

Why This Fight Matters

For Tsuruya, this bout represents an opportunity to:

• Rebound from his first career loss
• Re-establish momentum
• Move closer to the UFC rankings
• Demonstrate improvements in striking

A convincing victory could quickly place him back on the radar as a future contender in the flyweight division.

Opponent Analysis

Luis Gurule enters the fight with UFC experience and recent momentum after earning a key victory. The matchup is considered a crucial test for both fighters.

Many analysts expect Tsuruya to rely heavily on his grappling advantage while Gurule attempts to keep the fight standing.

Connection With Tatsuro Taira

Many MMA fans often compare Tsuruya with fellow Japanese standout Tatsuro Taira.

The two fighters share several similarities:

• Japanese nationality
• Flyweight division
• The Blackbelt Japan affiliation
• Strong grappling backgrounds

Taira has already reached title-contender status and challenged for UFC gold, while Tsuruya remains earlier in his developmental journey.

However, Tsuruya’s youth gives him plenty of time to follow a similar path.

Can Rei Tsuruya Become a UFC Champion?

The UFC flyweight division is currently one of the deepest and most competitive weight classes in MMA.

Contenders such as:

• Joshua Van
• Tatsuro Taira
• Brandon Royval
• Alexandre Pantoja

have raised the level of competition significantly.

For Tsuruya to reach championship level, he must continue improving his striking while maintaining his elite wrestling.

The good news is that he is still only 23 years old. Many flyweights do not enter their athletic prime until their late twenties.

If he continues progressing, a title run remains a realistic possibility.

Future Outlook

Rei Tsuruya represents the future of Japanese MMA.

Japan has produced legendary fighters throughout combat sports history, and the UFC has increasingly invested in developing Asian talent.

With his technical wrestling, submission skills, and willingness to learn from setbacks, Tsuruya possesses the attributes necessary for long-term success.

The coming years will determine whether he can transform from promising prospect into legitimate UFC contender.

Regardless of immediate results, he remains one of the most intriguing young fighters to watch in the flyweight division.

Conclusion

Rei Tsuruya has already accomplished more than many fighters achieve throughout an entire career. From dominating regional competition to earning a UFC contract and competing against elite opponents, his rise has been impressive.

Despite suffering his first professional defeat against Joshua Van, Tsuruya remains one of the UFC’s brightest young flyweight prospects. His 10-1 record, elite wrestling pedigree, and continued development suggest that bigger opportunities lie ahead.

As he prepares for his next UFC appearance, fans around the world will be watching closely to see whether the Japanese prospect can resume his climb toward championship contention.

FAQs

What is Rei Tsuruya’s UFC record?

Rei Tsuruya currently holds a professional MMA record of 10-1, including victories by knockout, submission, and decision.

How old is Rei Tsuruya?

Rei Tsuruya was born on June 22, 2002, making him 23 years old.

Who did Rei Tsuruya lose to?

His first professional loss came against Joshua Van at UFC 313 via unanimous decision.

What gym does Rei Tsuruya train at?

Tsuruya trains with The Blackbelt Japan, one of Japan’s premier MMA teams.

Who is Rei Tsuruya’s next opponent?

Recent reports indicate that Tsuruya is scheduled to face Luis Gurule at UFC Macau following opponent changes on the card.

Is Rei Tsuruya on Wikipedia?

Yes, Rei Tsuruya is increasingly gaining recognition through major MMA databases and coverage, though fans frequently search for updated Wikipedia information as his UFC career grows.

What weight class does Rei Tsuruya fight in?

He competes in the UFC flyweight division at 125 pounds.

Is Rei Tsuruya related to Tatsuro Taira?

No, they are not related. However, both are Japanese UFC flyweights associated with The Blackbelt Japan and are considered part of the new generation of Japanese MMA talent.