Manel Kape thinks he earned UFC title shot after revenge KO over Kyoji Horguchi: „It was enough“

Manel Kape envisions a UFC title combat the following time he steps contained in the Octagon.

The stage was set for a excessive stakes flyweight tilt in the principle occasion of UFC Vegas 119 this previous Saturday. For Kape, not solely was it an opportunity to make a robust case for a 125-pound title combat, nevertheless it was a possibility to get revenge on Kyoji Horiguchi. “Starboy” was submitted by Horiguchi beneath the Rizin banner again in 2017.

This go-around, it was Kape who turned the tables. He scored a third-round TKO end to safe a “Efficiency of the Evening” bonus and his fourth victory in a row. Kape appeared on the UFC Vegas 119 post-fight presser and he advised reporters that he believes a shot at reigning UFC Flyweight Champion Joshua Van is so as (h/t MMAJunkie).

“It was sufficient,” Kape mentioned. “Even final time after I fought Brandon Royval, it was sufficient. All the things I do within the cage was sufficient as a result of I win spectacular – I end the blokes. However allow them to combat. I must take a while off, care for enterprise, sit back with household and see my pals. I simply wish to relaxation just a little bit.”

Kape has lengthy been calling for a title shot, however he’s taken on nearly each problem UFC matchmakers have thrown at him and handed with flying colours. After an 0-2 begin beneath the UFC banner, “Starboy” has since gone 8-1. He hasn’t been defeated since July 2024.

Van not too long ago earned his first profitable flyweight title protection in opposition to Tatsuro Taira. He secured “Battle of the Evening” honors with a fifth-round TKO end. Whether or not or not “The Fearless” will make his second title protection in opposition to Kape will likely be a narrative to look at within the coming months.

Is it time for Joshua Van vs. Manel Kape, or do you’ve gotten one other contender in thoughts? Let your voice be heard within the feedback under.