Kape turns down title wait, locks in Horiguchi rematch in Vegas

UFC flyweight contender Manel Kape has made it official: he is bypassing the bench and a delayed title shot to instead lock horns with Kyoji Horiguchi at UFC Vegas 119. Kape, riding a three-fight knockout streak, told media that he chose to “keep rolling” rather than sit idle while the UFC sorted out a flyweight title picture thrown off by champion Joshua Van’s minor injury. The fighter framed the decision as a financial and competitive necessity, arguing that staying active in the cage beats waiting on a bench that may not lead to a belt until late 2026.