Despite a lack of push from the promotion, the flyweight showdown between Muhammad Mokaev and Manel Kape at UFC 304 in Manchester grew into a highly anticipated grudge match.
A fight that could produce the next title challenger at 125lbs, Mokaev vs. Kape had seen several skirmishes in advance of Fight Night, including at Friday’s ceremonial weigh-ins. With Mokaev undefeated and Kape a former RIZIN champ long seen as a title hopeful, expectations were high heading into the match-up.
The fight couldn’t even start before Kape rushed at Mokaev, having to be stopped by security all around the cage. As much as the fighters seemed to be at each other’s throat in the build up to the fight, it certainly was a very patient first round. Mokaev was able to use his kicks to keep Kape at bay for the entire first round. Kape got going a little towards the end of the round hitting Mokaev with a right hand that forced Mokaev to shoot to end the round.
THESE TWO CAN'T WAIT TO PUT THEIR HANDS ON EACH OTHER 😱@MuhammadMokaev vs @ManelKape is LIVE RIGHT NOW on @ESPNPlus! #UFC304 pic.twitter.com/5crF0UShG3
— UFC (@ufc) July 28, 2024
The second round got underway with Mokaev landing a huge right hand but in the exchange Kape seemed to have hurt his toe, potentially breaking it. Mokaev finally had success with his wrestling but grabbed Kape’s shorts blatantly. Mike Beltran, the referee of the bout, had to intervene and issue a very strong warning, taking the position away. Mokaev was able to keep Kape away with kicks most of the round even though Kape was the pressure fighter. Kape seemed to have an issue moving around on his right foot, not surprisingly. Ten minutes into the fight and their was still not much action, but Mokaev was the busier fighter through two rounds.
In the third and final round Mokaev was able to have success taking down Kape who tried to jump guillotine. Mokaev was able to slip out eventually but ate some nasty elbows from Kape in return. Mokaev seemed to have for a knee bar but Kape was able to defend to get back to his feet. The round ended in a couple of scrambles with Mokaev hanging on for a unanimous decision win on the cards. The two seemed to have bury the hatchet after the fight sharing a hug and some words.
Mokaev called for fans after the fight to “give a clap for Manel Kape,” calling him a great fighter. Daniel Cormier asked him what he wanted next and Mokaev stated “I want a title shot.” After this win over Manel Kape he might just be on his way to a date with UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja.
Official Result: Muhammad Mokaev def. Manel Kape by unanimous decision (29–28, 29–28, 30–27)
