Manel Kape and flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja had a respectful change after UFC Combat Evening 253.

Kape (21-7 MMA, 7-3 UFC) scored a TKO win over Asu Almabayev (21-3 MMA, 4-1 UFC) on this previous Saturday’s UFC Combat Evening 253 foremost occasion to emerge as a title contender. “Starboy” is 6-1 in his previous seven fights.

Kape needs Pantoja (29-5 MMA, 13-3 UFC) subsequent, and he obtained an opportunity to deal with the champion when Pantoja was known as into the ESPN post-fight present. Pantoja, who spoiled Kape’s UFC debut in February 2021, had nothing however reward for his former opponent.

“What a combat, Manel is so robust,” Pantoja mentioned. “Manel is a special stage, this man (Almabayev) isn’t on the identical stage as Manel. …I’m very completely satisfied to have Manel in my division, within the UFC, as a result of the exhibits like that, I really like to observe Manel combating, he’s so entertaining. He’s so good, he has so many abilities in hanging, he has good takedown protection. Superb Manel, you deserve all of the glory.”

“You possibly can come for the title, however I’m right here brother.”

Often identified for his trash discuss on the mic, Kape reciprocated the respect in direction of Pantoja, however despatched him a warning.

“I’m an enormous fan of Pantoja, the way in which he cares for his household simply exhibits how good a person he’s,” Kape responded. “He’s not only a fighter. I can see values and rules, and Pantoja is the man who has this stuff.

“He’s been working for his children and his household. I don’t have any unhealthy vitality, we’re respectful, however on the subject of the title, I’ve to take that belt man. I wish to feed my daughters as effectively so Pantoja, be prepared.”

Kape was then requested to interrupt down Pantoja’s weaknesses.

“There may be many issues I can exploit in Pantoja’s sport,” Kape mentioned. “I simply see that Pantoja walks ahead an excessive amount of, you realize? And brother, I’m a sniper. So put together for that. That hand is heavy. There may be 14 knockouts right here in MMA. It’s not each weight that has that a lot knockouts as me; flyweight, welterweight, bantamweight. I’ve 14 knockouts so, be prepared.”

When it was Pantoja’s flip, he selected to not reveal an excessive amount of, because the pair closed issues out in cordial trend.

“You’re too cocky,” Pantoja laughed.

For extra on the cardboard, go to MMA Junkie’s occasion hub for UFC Combat Evening 253.