Manel Kape Targets UFC Flyweight Title Contention

Cameron Kelly Updated: 4 hours ago

Manel Kape is heading into a pivotal moment in his flyweight run as he prepares for a high-stakes rematch with Kyoji Horiguchi.

Saturday is an opportunity that could help shape Kape's path toward his first UFC Championship shot.

With a crowded flyweight division, Kape needs momentum now more than ever.

A statement win this weekend in Vegas could push Kape's name firmly into the championship conversation.

The rematch carries added weight given their history. Kape lost to Horiguchi in their first meetup by a third-round submission.

Kape needs a decisive performance to separate himself from the crowded pack and best position himself in the rankings.

A win wouldn't just settle unfinished business - it could be the breakthrough that puts him in line for a Flyweight Championship opportunity.

UFC Fight Night: Kape vs. Horiguchi

Manel Kape returns to the Octagon on Saturday, June 20, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The main card will start at 8:00 PM (ET) with Kape vs. Horiguchi headlining UFC Fight Night.

Manel Kape was born on November 14, 1993, and is 32 years old. He turned professional in 2012 at the age of 17.

Manel Kape was originally scheduled to make his UFC debut in December 2020 at UFC 183 but Alexandre Pantogja pulled out.

He ended up making his debut in February 2021 at UFC Fight Night 184. He lost to Alexandre Pantoja via unanimous decision.

Manel Kape has a fight record of 22-7-0 and is currently ranked #2 in the Flyweight division. Here are some of his most recent bouts:

December 2025: Defeated Brandon Royval by KO/TKO in the first round at UFC Fight Night in the main event.
March 2025: Defeated Asu Almabayev by KO/TKO in the third round at UFC Fight Night in the main event.
December 2024: Defeated Bruno Silva by KO/TKO in the third round.
July 2024: Lost to Muhammad Mokaev by unanimous decision in the third round at UFC 304.