Manel Kape, the rising star of the UFC’s flyweight division, is poised to make a significant impact on the sport. With a three-fight winning streak under his belt, this 29-year-old fighter from AKA Thailand has steadily climbed into the Top 10 at 125 pounds. His upcoming clash with the undefeated Chute Boxe prospect Felipe dos Santos at UFC 293 is set to be a featured attraction, taking place at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney.
Kape’s journey to this point has been marked by intense rivalries that have tested his mettle and shaped his career. One of the most memorable battles was against Japanese superstar Kyoji Horiguchi in the Rizin Fighting Federation bantamweight grand prix. Despite putting up a valiant effort, Kape succumbed to Horiguchi’s arm-triangle choke in the third round of their semifinal bout, marking a significant setback in his career.
However, Kape bounced back and secured the Rizin Fighting Federation bantamweight championship by defeating Kai Asakura in a thrilling main event at Rizin 20. Their back-and-forth battle ended with Kape’s relentless punches forcing the stoppage in the second round, solidifying his championship status.
In his UFC debut, Kape faced off against Alexandre Pantoja in a flyweight showcase. While he showcased moments of brilliance, Kape ultimately fell short, with Pantoja winning a unanimous decision. Despite the loss, Kape continued to show his potential in the division.
Kape’s redemption came when he took on Zhalgas Zhumagulov in the UFC on ESPN 31 undercard. Kape’s relentless punches and striking prowess overwhelmed Zhumagulov, leading to a first-round stoppage and showcasing his ability to rebuild his career.
As Manel Kape gears up for his bout against Felipe dos Santos, fans can expect fireworks from this talented fighter who has faced adversity and emerged stronger, making his journey an intriguing one to follow in the world of mixed martial arts.
