Manel Kape is eager to challenge new UFC flyweight champion Joshua Van, confidently predicting a dominant victory and expressing readiness to fight early in 2026.
Manel Kape’s eyes are set on Joshua Van, the new UFC flyweight champion. But he’s not just chasing the title; he’s after a knockout spectacle.
After knocking out Brandon Royval in the first round at the final UFC event of 2025, Kape is eager for a shot at Van. With Alexandre Pantoja sidelined due to injury, the division’s momentum must continue.
Kape is determined to end Van’s reign before it begins. “I see Joshua Van as a punching bag,” he told MMA Fighting. “I’ll just train like I’m hitting a bag. Sure, he’ll throw punches, but I’ll dodge them.”
Even Royval, known for his speed, couldn’t land a punch on Kape. “Joshua Van won’t land anything either. He’ll be my punching bag,” Kape asserted confidently.
Why is Kape so sure he’ll face Van next? It’s all about styles. Van’s known for his striking, and so is Kape, who’s on a knockout streak.
Kape promises a fight full of “beautiful violence,” not a reckless brawl. “Fans loved the Royval brawl, but it was foolish. Too many holes in their games,” he said.
Kape predicts a one-sided fight. “People think it’ll be competitive. It won’t be. I’ll destroy him,” he declared.
He believes the UFC matchmakers might regret pairing him with Van. “They’ll wonder, ‘What did we do?’” Kape chuckled. “It won’t be close.”
He’s eyeing a February date in Houston, Van’s hometown. Despite Ramadan approaching, Kape is eager to fight early in 2026.
“Let’s go March 8 at UFC 326,” Kape suggested. He doesn’t mind being in the co-main event. “For me, it’s about the belt. February looks perfect.”