Manel Kape showcased his undeniable talent and potential on Saturday night in Las Vegas, as he faced off against Asu Almabayev in the main event of UFC Fight Night. From the start of the bout, Kape (21-7) exhibited remarkable skill and control that ultimately led to a third-round TKO victory, marking a significant milestone in his career. Kape’s dominance was evident, particularly when he cornered Almabayev (21-3) and unleashed a flurry of devastating strikes that prompted the referee to halt the contest at 2:16 into the round. This outcome delivered Almabayev his first defeat in 18 fights since 2017, emphasizing just how impactful Kape’s performance was.
After the fight, Kape expressed his desire for a title shot with palpable confidence. “Guys, who is next against me?” Kape exclaimed. “They’re gonna deny again, my title shot? [UFC], you know I’m the best.” His vocal assertiveness stems from an impressive record, including six victories in his last seven matches. Kape’s lone setback came during his UFC debut against the current champion Alexandre Pantoja in 2021—a fight that many now revisit given how much Kape has evolved since that initial loss. Pantoja (29-5) has proven to be a formidable champion, securing his title with a seven-fight winning streak and defending it three times. With viable challengers dwindling, Kape emerges as a compelling contender for a rematch.
Statistical Superiority
The statistics from the fight further reflected Kape’s control in the octagon. He outstripped Almabayev 63-40 in total strikes, revealing a significant disparity in effectiveness and aggression. Kape continuously maintained the center of the cage, demonstrating not only his striking abilities but also tactical awareness. Although the referee failed to catch a handful of accidental eye pokes during the match, Kape’s command throughout rendered these indiscretions seemingly insignificant. His ability to pressure Almabayev and execute combinations—especially when the latter was on the retreat—speaks volumes about Kape’s striking prowess and overall game plan.
Kape’s recent performance positions him as a frontrunner in the flyweight division. With a growing resume highlighted by four finishes in his last six victories, fans and analysts alike speculate about the implications of Kape’s recent triumph. The future is undoubtedly bright for “Starboy,” who has shown his capability to compete at the highest levels. As the UFC landscape fluctuates, Kape’s aspirations for a title shot could soon become a reality, particularly if he continues to build on this momentum. Interest in a potential rematch with Pantoja grows, and the UFC may find themselves with a compelling narrative as they look to promote this rising star of the octagon. As Kape keeps knocking on the door of championship contention, the flyweight division might be on the brink of an exciting new chapter.