Manel Kape: Explosive Striker, Former Champion, and UFC Flyweight Contender

Manel Kape, also known as “Starboy,” is a dynamic flyweight fighter known for his explosive power, crisp striking, and confident demeanor. Hailing from Luanda, Angola, and fighting out of Portugal, Kape’s journey through mixed martial arts has been a thrilling ride marked by highlight-reel knockouts and championship success. A former Rizin Bantamweight Champion, Kape brings a wealth of international experience to the UFC’s flyweight division. His combination of speed, power, and flair makes him a formidable opponent and an exciting fighter to watch.

Fight Purse

Manel Kape’s fight purses reflect his growing reputation in the UFC flyweight division. In his most recent fight against David Dvorak at UFC Fight Night 217, Kape earned a guaranteed payout of $84,000, which included a $42,000 base salary and a $42,000 win bonus.

When Kape made his UFC debut against Alexandre Pantoja in 2021, his guaranteed payout was $50,000, including a $25,000 base salary and a $25,000 win bonus. His consistent performances and rising profile have steadily increased his earnings, with potential for even higher payouts as he continues to climb the ranks and secure high-profile fights.

Win Bonuses

Manel Kape’s ability to finish fights and deliver decisive victories has earned him multiple win bonuses. His explosive victory over Ode Osbourne at UFC 265 netted him a $50,000 win bonus, doubling his base salary and cementing his status as a knockout artist.

Kape’s aggressive style and finishing instincts make him a prime candidate for win bonuses. Whether he’s ending fights with a perfectly timed punch or a flying knee, his performances are designed to leave a lasting impression. As he continues to rack up wins, these bonuses will remain a significant part of his earnings.

Sponsorship Earnings

In addition to his fight purses, Manel Kape benefits from sponsorship deals that boost his overall income. Through the UFC’s Venum sponsorship program, Kape earns around $5,000 to $7,000 per fight. This amount reflects his tenure in the UFC and is expected to increase as he competes in more bouts and climbs the rankings.

Kape’s marketability extends beyond the Octagon. His swagger, charisma, and exciting fighting style make him an appealing figure for sportswear brands, fitness companies, and regional sponsors in Angola and Portugal. Kape has partnered with brands like Venum and Nutrition Depot, leveraging his growing fanbase and social media presence to secure additional endorsements.

Post-Fight Comments

Manel Kape’s post-fight interviews are a blend of confidence, charisma, and ambition. After his emphatic knockout victory over Zhalgas Zhumagulov at UFC Fight Night 215, Kape exuded confidence, calling out higher-ranked flyweights and expressing his desire to challenge for the title.

Kape is never shy about making bold call-outs, often targeting top contenders and champions. His ambition is clear: he wants to become the UFC Flyweight Champion. His post-fight interviews frequently emphasize his belief in his skills, his readiness to face anyone in the division, and his goal of becoming one of the best flyweights in the world.

Looking ahead, Kape’s focus is on breaking into the flyweight top five and securing a title shot. His determination, combined with his talent and experience, positions him well for a future run at the championship.

Injury Report

Manel Kape’s aggressive and high-risk fighting style comes with the potential for injuries. Throughout his career, he has dealt with minor injuries such as hand fractures, cuts, and bruises. These injuries are typical for a striker who relies on explosive movements and powerful punches.

Despite these setbacks, Kape’s durability and resilience allow him to recover quickly and stay active. His rigorous training regimen and focus on conditioning help him minimize injury risks and perform at a high level.

On the offensive side, Kape’s precision striking and knockout power have caused significant damage to his opponents. His ability to land clean, powerful shots often results in cuts, swelling, and concussions for those who step into the cage with him.

Fight Camp

Manel Kape trains out of AKA Thailand in Phuket, a gym known for producing elite fighters. Under the guidance of head coach Mike Swick, Kape refines his striking, wrestling, and overall MMA skills. The gym’s emphasis on high-level training and strategic preparation helps Kape stay sharp and ready for any opponent.

Kape’s training partners include experienced UFC fighters and top-level prospects who push him to improve every aspect of his game. The competitive environment at AKA Thailand ensures that Kape is constantly evolving and adapting to new challenges.

His training camp focuses on enhancing his explosive striking, takedown defense, and fight IQ. Kape’s dedication to his training and his willingness to learn from his coaches and teammates are key factors in his success.

Fight History Trends

Manel Kape’s fight history is a testament to his resilience, skill, and determination. Before joining the UFC, Kape made a name for himself in Rizin Fighting Federation, where he captured the Rizin Bantamweight Championship with a knockout victory over Kai Asakura.

Since transitioning to the UFC, Kape has faced tough competition but has shown steady improvement. After a rocky start with losses to Alexandre Pantoja and Matheus Nicolau, Kape bounced back with impressive wins over Ode Osbourne, Zhalgas Zhumagulov, and David Dvorak. His ability to learn from setbacks and come back stronger highlights his mental toughness and adaptability.

Kape’s trend of delivering exciting, high-paced fights makes him a consistent threat in the flyweight division. His knockout power and finishing instincts ensure that his fights are never boring, and his trajectory points toward continued success.

Manel Kape’s journey from Rizin champion to UFC contender is a story of determination, skill, and explosive talent. His precision striking, fearless attitude, and ambition to be the best make him a standout in the flyweight division. As he continues to climb the rankings, Kape’s star power and fighting ability promise an exciting future filled with potential title shots and memorable victories.

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