On Saturday night, the UFC Apex in Las Vegas bore witness to a commanding performance by Manel Kape, who seems to be rapidly ascending the ranks of the flyweight division. With a record now standing at 21-7, Kape faced Asu Almabayev (21-3) in the main event — a matchup that promised intensity and excitement. The fight concluded with a third-round TKO at 2:16, marking Almabayev’s first defeat since he began his professional career. Kape’s control was evident throughout the bout as he consistently pressured Almabayev, forcing him into a defensive strategy that ultimately led to his downfall.
Kape’s post-fight remarks highlighted a fierce determination to secure a title shot that, in his mind, is long overdue. “Guys, who is next against me? They’re gonna deny again my title shot?” he questioned rhetorically, underscoring not only his confidence but also his belief in his abilities. He emphasized that defeating a fighter with a 17-fight win streak, who was traditionally viewed as a challenging matchup due to his wrestling prowess, proved his legitimacy in the competitive landscape of the UFC. Kape’s assertion that he can match any style in the division, whether it be wrestling or striking, signals a shift in not only his self-awareness but also his trajectory as a fighter.
Analyzing the statistics from the bout, Kape outstruck Almabayev with a total of 63 significant strikes compared to Almabayev’s 40. These numbers are telling, yet they don’t fully encapsulate Kape’s superior ring generalship and control throughout the fight. From the opening bell, he asserted dominance by taking center cage position, landing effective combinations, and keeping the pressure on Almabayev, who increasingly resorted to evading rather than engaging. Notably, despite a few missed calls from referee Mike Beltran concerning accidental eye pokes, Kape’s overall performance rendered those moments inconsequential.
With this latest victory, Kape has positioned himself squarely in the conversation for a title shot that would reflect his growing stature in the sport. Having won six of his last seven bouts, Kape’s consistency and adaptability have made him a formidable contender. His past encounter with the current champion, Alexandre Pantoja, in which he suffered a loss, presents an intriguing possibility for a rematch. Pantoja’s current reign has seen him defend his title successfully, but Kape stands out among contenders like Kai Kara-France for his recent form and impressive finishing ability—having ended four of his last six fights conventionally.
As the UFC continues to map out the future of its flyweight division, Manel Kape is emerging as a significant factor. With a compelling comeback story and an arsenal that blends striking and wrestling, he is more than just a fighter — he’s a potential champion in the making. The fighting world is eagerly awaiting the UFC’s next steps as Kape continues to build his case for the opportunity he believes he has undeniably earned.
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