Masataka Taniguchi

Masataka Taniguchi (谷口将隆; born 19 January 1994) is a Japanese professional boxer who has competed in the mini-flyweight and light-flyweight divisions. A skilled southpaw, he is a former WBO mini-flyweight world champion (2021–2023) and has also held the Japanese mini-flyweight title. Known for his sharp technique and late-fight finishing ability, Taniguchi has earned a reputation as one of Japan’s most disciplined and resilient fighters.

Taniguchi made his professional debut in 2016 and quickly rose through the domestic scene, challenging for the OPBF mini-flyweight title within just 18 months of turning professional. In 2018, he claimed the WBO Asia Pacific title, which earned him a world title shot against Vic Saludar in 2019, though he fell short on the scorecards. He rebounded with strong victories, including a decision over rival Kai Ishizawa, before capturing the Japanese national title in 2020.

In December 2021, Taniguchi achieved his greatest success by stopping Wilfredo Méndez to win the WBO mini-flyweight championship. He successfully defended the belt against Ishizawa in a high-profile rematch but lost it in January 2023 to Filipino puncher Melvin Jerusalem, who stopped him in the second round. The defeat marked the end of his world title reign but not his career.

Taniguchi moved up to light-flyweight in 2023, defeating veteran Kenichi Horikawa despite suffering a broken jaw mid-fight. After recovering from surgery, he returned to action in May 2024 against Jaysever Abcede, continuing his pursuit of success in the higher weight class.