Mohammed Mokaev and Manel Kape at the UFC 304 weigh-in. Photo by Patrick McCauley/Cageside Press
Despite no pressure from the promotion, the flyweight showdown between Mohamed Mokaev and Manel Kape at UFC 304 in Manchester developed into a highly anticipated grudge match.
There have been several skirmishes leading up to fight night for Mokaev vs. Kape, a potential title challenger for the 125-pound division, including at the weigh-in on Friday. Anticipation was high for the bout, as Mokaev is undefeated and Kape is a former Rizin champion who has long been considered a title contender.
Before the fight even began, Kape lunged at Mokaev and was stopped by security guards around the cage. While both fighters looked to be battling each other hard in the early going, the first round was certainly very patient. Mokaev used kicks to keep Kape at bay throughout the first round. Kape got some momentum towards the end of the round and landed a right hand on Mokaev, forcing Mokaev to go on the offensive to end the round.
It looks like these two just can’t wait to touch each other 😱Muhammad Mokaev versus Manelcape is currently streaming live ESPN Plus! #UFC304 pic.twitter.com/5crF0UShG3
— UFC (@ufc) July 28, 2024
At the start of the second round, Mokaev landed some hard right punches, but in the exchange, Cape hurt his toe, nearly breaking it. Mokaev finally managed to wrestle, but blatantly grabbed Cape’s shorts. Match referee Mike Beltran had to step in, issue a very strong warning, and take Cape’s position away. Despite Cape’s pressure, Mokaev kept Cape at bay with kicks for most of the round. Cape seemed to have trouble with the movement of his right leg, which was no surprise. There was still no movement after 10 minutes into the bout, but Mokaev was the more active one throughout the two rounds.
In the third and final round, Mokaev successfully took down Kape who attempted a jumping guillotine. Mokaev was eventually able to get out, but received a nasty elbow in return from Kape. Mokaev appeared to go for a kneebar, but Kape was able to defend and get to his feet. The round ended with some brawling, with Mokaev going for the unanimous decision victory. The two appeared to have made amends after the bout, sharing hugs and words.
After the fight, Mokaev called on the fans to “clap for Manel Kape” and called him a great fighter. When Daniel Cormier asked him what he wanted next, Mokaev replied, “I want a title fight.” After a win against Manel Kape, he may be headed to a bout with UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja.
Official result: Muhammad Mokaev defeats Manel Kape by unanimous decision (29–28, 29–28, 30–27)
