The heated exchange on social media between Manel Kape and the current UFC flyweight champion Joshua Van has reignited once again.
Joshua Van demonstrated last month at UFC 331 that his 125-pound title victory last year, which came after Alexandre Pantoja suffered a freak arm injury at UFC 323, was no fluke. In their rematch, Van showcased his superior striking, endurance, and takedown defense against Pantoja, earning a unanimous decision win.
Having secured two successful title defenses in 2026, Van is likely to face top contender Manel Kape next. Kape, riding a four-fight knockout streak, is determined to send Van to the shadow realm and strip him of the belt. Earlier today on X (formerly Twitter), “Starboy” issued a stark warning to Van, stating:
“I only need one clean shot, and your face won’t match your passport anymore. #disfigured”
Meanwhile, Van is ready to face Kape and responded with a playful jab on X aimed at the 32-year-old contender:
“Yo fat fu*k Start cutting now cuz u better make weight !! We don’t want another weight excuse. Let’s give the people wht they want!!! #tittyboi”
Additionally, former two-time UFC flyweight champ Deiveson Figueiredo, who now competes at bantamweight, expressed confidence that he could knock out “The Fearless” if given the chance to drop back down to flyweight. Speaking at UFC 332 media day, the Brazilian revealed he can easily make the 125-pound limit and has been urging the UFC for a matchup with Van, remarking:
“Let’s see if his boxing is as good as mine. … If the UFC gives me the opportunity, I would knock him out.”
Fan Take: The brewing rivalry between Manel Kape and Joshua Van is shaping up to be one of the flyweight division’s most intense showdowns, promising explosive action inside the Octagon. Moreover, the possibility of Deiveson Figueiredo’s return to flyweight to challenge Van adds even more intrigue, potentially elevating the division’s excitement and competitiveness to new heights for fight fans everywhere.
Source: www.lowkickmma.com
