Manel Kape calls for Joshua Van to agree to title fight next month
UFC flyweight contender Manel Kape has called for Joshua Van to agree to face him for the world title at UFC 326 next month.
Right now, Manel Kape is one of a few different flyweights who could be viewed as the rightful number one contender for a title shot. However, many would argue that he sits ahead of the rest, largely due to the fact that he is riding a three-fight knockout streak with his latest coming against Brandon Royval in the first round of their December 2025 encounter.
Manel Kape has always been an outspoken guy who wants to make it crystal clear that he believes he deserves to compete for the title. Joshua Van, meanwhile, won the belt due to an injury suffered by Alexandre Pantoja, with the former champion’s immediate future being somewhat up in the air.
With UFC 326 being right around the corner, Manel Kape has suggested that he should be challenging Van for the championship on March 7th.
Manel Kape and Joshua Van continue to tease title fight
Van: “Manel…!???? Taira …!???? [laughing face emojis]”
Kape: “We’re all waiting for u to sign for March 7th. What’s the delay? Pen out of ink or hands shaking?”
Given how stacked things are at the top of the flyweight division right now, it does feel like things need to get moving, especially when you consider the controversial manner in which Van won the title in the first place. Kape has been pushing for a crack at the gold for a long time now, and it certainly seems as if he has earned the right to square off with Van.
Either way, we can’t imagine the trash talk dying down anytime soon as the top stars continue to impress at 125 pounds, restoring the division back to its former glory in the process.
