UFC flyweight contender Tatsuro Taira issued a lengthy statement after being on the wrong end of an instant classic at UFC 328.

UFC flyweight champion Joshua Van and rising star Tatsuro Taira might’ve been the co-main event at UFC 328, but they both performed as if everything was on the line inside the Octagon.

Van vs. Taira ended up being an instant classic for as long as the fight lasted at UFC 328 last Saturday in Newark. After 4 1/2 rounds of nonstop action in all facets of the fight, Van dropped Taira with a massive right hand in Round 5 to walk away with the TKO victory.

It was a stunning finish to one of the greatest flyweight title fights in UFC history. Just years after UFC CEO Dana White considered closing the division, Van and Taira were the latest example of why it was a great idea not to follow through with that decision.

Despite suffering from the jaws of defeat for just the second time in his career, Taira proved himself a household name in the UFC flyweight division for years to come. At 26-years-old, he’s just getting started and will likely fight Van again, as he hinted in his first post-fight remarks.

Tatsuro Taira shares strong message after first knockout loss to Joshua Van

In a recent tweet, Taira issued his first public remarks since UFC 328.

I’m sorry for the delay, but thank you so much for all the support from Japan today,” Taira began.

“Before and after the match, as always, the entire team, including myself, is supported by so many warm words. Tatsuro Taira’s journey is far from over. After a short rest to recover from the damage, when I return to the road again, I would be delighted if you could continue to run alongside me, enjoying his fight just as you always have.

“Thank you, Joshua Van,” Taira continued. “Appreciated you fighting me. Congratulations on your first title defense. True Champ. I’m sure we’ll face each other again.”

Van will likely fight former titleholder Alexandre Pantoja later this year in his next flyweight title defense, after their first fight ended due to a Pantoja injury at UFC 323 in December. Meanwhile, Taira will likely fight another top contender for the chance to run it back with Van soon.

Who should Tatsuro Taira fight next after UFC 328? Let us know in the comments!