Inside the Fighting Family Behind UFC Prospect Rei Tsuruya
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When Rei Tsuruya steps into the cage on May 30th at UFC Macau against Jesus Aguilar, he won’t just be representing himself — he’ll be carrying the weight of an entire fighting legacy.
At just 10-1, Tsuruya has already established himself as one of the more intriguing prospects on the UFC roster. His skill set, composure, and finishing ability point to a fighter well beyond his years. And to make it clear, his sole loss is to current UFC Champion, Joshua Van. That’s nothing to be ashamed of.
But what makes his rise even more fascinating is that his success is deeply rooted in family.
A Brotherhood Built on Combat
Rei isn’t the only Tsuruya making waves in combat sports.
His older brother, Kento Tsuruya, has carved out his own path in mixed martial arts. Holding a 3-2 professional record, Kento has competed under respected Japanese promotions such as GLADIATOR and Fighting NEXUS. While still developing, he represents the same gritty foundation that defines the Tsuruya name.
On the other end of the spectrum is the youngest brother, Hiroto Tsuruya. At just 19 years old, Hiroto has taken a slightly different route, transitioning into professional wrestling. Signed to Pro Wrestling NOAH, he blends legitimate martial arts experience, including Brazilian jiu-jitsu, with the performance and storytelling of puroresu.
It’s a different stage, but the same fighting DNA.
The Origin: A Pioneer Father
At the center of it all is their father, Hiroshi Tsuruya.
A veteran of the early Japanese MMA scene, Hiroshi compiled a 7-2-3 record between 1998 and 2008, competing during a time when the sport was still evolving. He even shared the cage with notable names like Takanori Gomi, a testament to the level he competed at.
Following his fighting career, Hiroshi transitioned into coaching, where he became a respected figure in developing Japanese talent. His influence is evident in his sons, particularly Rei, whose technical sharpness and fight IQ reflect years of high-level guidance.
A Unique Connection to Stardom
Rei Tsuruya’s journey has already intersected with global stardom in a unique way.
In a crossover that highlights his growing reputation, Rei has even been cornered by Shinsuke Nakamura, a Japanese icon who has achieved success on the world stage in WWE. It’s a rare moment where MMA and professional wrestling lineage collide, further emphasizing the cultural significance behind Tsuruya’s rise.
More Than a Prospect
In a sport constantly searching for the “next big thing,” Rei Tsuruya stands out. Not just because of his talent, but because of where he comes from.
He isn’t just a prospect.
He’s the product of a fighting system built within his own home. A system shaped by a pioneer father, sharpened alongside a fellow fighter brother, and paralleled by a rising pro wrestling talent.
And on May 30th, as he steps into the UFC cage once again, the Tsuruya name won’t just be present — it will be on full display.
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