Rei Tsuruya

Rei Tsuruya is a Japanese mixed martial artist competing in the UFC flyweight division. As of September 29, 2026, the UFC lists him as an active fighter who trains at The BLACKBELT Japan. He began wrestling at age three, influenced by his father, who runs a gym, and turned professional in 2021. Tsuruya won the Season 2 Road to UFC flyweight tournament, earning his UFC place after defeating Mark Climaco, Ronal Siahaan and Jiniushiyue.

Tsuruya made his UFC debut in 2024 and later won a unanimous decision over Carlos Hernandez. He suffered the only professional defeat listed on his UFC profile against Joshua Van, who is identified there as the current flyweight champion. Tsuruya returned in 2026 with first-round submission victories over Luis Gurule and Kevin Borjas. His style is built around wrestling, grappling pressure and submissions; the UFC identifies the twister as his favorite grappling technique and the right hook as his favorite striking technique. His listed accolades include King of Pancrase at flyweight and the Road to UFC Season 2 tournament title.