Manel Kape is experiencing a pivotal moment in his flyweight career as he recently defeated Kyoji Horiguchi in a high-stakes rematch.
Manel Kape entered the bout ranked second in the official UFC flyweight rankings. Not only did he need a win over Kyoji Horiguchi, but he needed a decisive one.
Kape has been seeking title contention for a long time, and after defeating a strong contender in convincing fashion, he may have finally placed himself firmly in the championship conversation.
UFC Flyweight Picture: Manel Kape Seeks Breakthrough Win
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 returned to the Octagon on Saturday, June 20, in Las Vegas, Nevada. He defeated Kyoji Horiguchi by KO/TKO in the third round at UFC 279.
Manel Kape Bio
Birthday | November 14, 1993 |
Age | 32 |
Country | Portugal |
Height | 5'5" |
Reach | 68" |
Weight Class | Flyweight |
Record | 23-7-0 |
Age
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 Record & Recent Fights
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:
June 2026: Defeated Kyoji Horiguchi by KO/TKO in the third round at UFC 279.
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.
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