Manel Kape is determined to get a shot at the flyweight title. The exciting striker and top contender in the flyweight division is aiming for a championship opportunity in 2025 after his dominant victory over Asu Almabayev at UFC Vegas 103. Kape’s performance was spectacular as he overwhelmed Almabayev with strikes. The fighter from Kazakhstan tried to escape, but referee Mike Beltran stopped the fight in the third round at 2:16.
This win marks Kape’s sixth victory in his last seven fights, and he hopes to challenge for the UFC flyweight title in his next appearance.
“Who’s next for me?” Kape exclaimed after his victory. “Are they going to deny me a title shot again? 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 strike with anyone in this division. I’m the best, I’m the star.”
“Alexandre Pantoja, Kai Kara-France, whoever is next to fight me, be ready. Because I’m going to take that belt like stealing candy from my daughter.”
Kape showed no fear of takedowns and was aggressive from the start, using combinations and maintaining a low stance 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 off balance.
Towards the end of the first round, Kape continued to use feints before landing a powerful right hand that hit Almabaev, causing a cut and bleeding around his left eye.
Almabayev struggled to utilize his grappling and was forced to engage in striking exchanges. He managed to land a couple of solid punches, but Kape seemed unfazed. Kape responded with accurate and powerful strikes, consistently weakening his opponent.
Kape’s constant pressure forced Almabayev to retreat and attempt to evade the relentless attacks. This strategy ultimately led to Almabayev’s downfall as he couldn’t find a way to counter Kape and resorted to simply trying to escape.
Kape remained in control and launched a series of strikes that forced Almabayev to desperately defend himself. When Almabayev stumbled, Kape continued his assault, leaving referee Beltran with no option but to stop the fight and protect Almabayev.
This is Kape’s second consecutive TKO victory, making it increasingly difficult to deny him a title shot as he continues to deliver impressive performances.
Rumors suggest that current flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja is likely to face Kai Kara-France next. If this happens, Kape could be the next challenger waiting for the winner.
