Manel Kape is determined to get a shot at the flyweight title.
The exciting striker and top flyweight contender is aiming for a championship opportunity in 2025 after a dominant victory over Asu Almabayev in the UFC Vegas 103 main event. Kape delivered an impressive performance, overwhelming Almabayev with strikes and forcing the referee to stop the fight at 2:16 of the third round.
This win marks Kape’s sixth victory in his last seven fights, and he hopes it will lead to a fight against the UFC flyweight champion next.
“Who is next? Who is next for me?” Kape exclaimed after his victory. “Are they going to deny me a title shot again? Hey Hunter [Campbell], you know I’m the best. I just defeated someone with a 17-fight winning streak. Everyone was afraid to fight him. Did you really think I was scared to fight him because he’s a wrestler? I can wrestle, and I can stand with anyone in this division. I’m the best. I’m the star boy.
“Pay attention Alexandre Pantoja, Kai Kara-France, whoever is next to fight me, be ready. Because I’m going to steal that belt like stealing candy from my daughter.”
Kape showed no fear of takedowns, immediately taking the offensive and looking for striking combinations while maintaining a low center of gravity to defend against potential takedown attempts from Almabayev. Kape’s punches were incredibly fast as he relentlessly attacked Almabayev from various angles, keeping his opponent guessing.
Late in the first round, Kape continued to use fakes and feints before landing a powerful right hand that struck Almabaev, causing a cut around his left eye to bleed.
As Almabayev struggled to utilize his grappling, he was forced to engage in striking exchanges. He managed to land a few solid punches, but Kape seemed unaffected. In response, Kape consistently retaliated with precise and powerful strikes, gradually weakening his opponent.
The constant pressure from Kape forced Almabayev to retreat, desperately trying to evade the aggressive attacks. However, this strategy proved to be Almabayev’s downfall, as he couldn’t find a way to counter Kape’s relentless offense and simply tried to escape.
With complete control, Kape surged forward with a flurry of strikes, causing Almabayev to do everything he could to avoid further damage. When Almabayev stumbled and Kape continued his assault, the referee had no choice but to intervene and stop the fight.
This is Kape’s second consecutive TKO victory, making it increasingly difficult to deny him a title shot as he continues to deliver spectacular performances.
Rumors suggest that flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja is expected to face Kai Kara-France next. If that happens, Kape may be the next challenger awaiting the winner.
