Ali Akbar Rosady
Las Vegas, NV – Manel Kape, known as "Starboy," delivered a spectacular third-round knockout against Kyoji Horiguchi in the main event of UFC Vegas 119 on Saturday, decisively avenging a prior loss that had lingered for nearly a decade. The highly anticipated rematch, steeped in a narrative of redemption, saw Kape overcome an early deficit to unleash a devastating counter-punch that flattened the revered Japanese veteran at 2:42 of the third round.
The encounter between Kape and Horiguchi was not merely another fight on the Ultimate Fighting Championship calendar; it was a deeply personal affair, tracing its roots back to their first meeting in 2017. In that initial clash under the RIZIN banner, Kape had suffered a third-round submission loss, a defeat that had undoubtedly fueled his drive and focus for this long-awaited second confrontation. Horiguchi, a decorated fighter with a storied career that includes stints as a former RIZIN Bantamweight and Flyweight Champion, entered the Octagon with a reputation for precision striking, blistering speed, and an iron will. Kape, meanwhile, had been on a formidable ascent, riding a four-fight winning streak, all secured via knockout, establishing himself as a potent force in his division with his aggressive style and undeniable finishing power. The stakes were considerably high for both athletes, with Kape seeking to erase a blot on his record and Horiguchi aiming to reaffirm his dominance over a persistent rival. Beyond personal vindication, Kape had also publicly expressed his belief that a victory over a fighter of Horiguchi’s caliber would cement his claim for a divisional title shot, adding another layer of intensity to the main event.
From the opening bell, the atmosphere inside the UFC Apex was charged with anticipation, a palpable tension reflecting the gravity of the contest. The initial moments of the first round were characterized by a cautious yet probing exchange of strikes, with both fighters testing the range with a series of low kicks. Kape, known for his explosive power, appeared measured, assessing Horiguchi’s renowned speed and counter-striking ability. Horiguchi, conversely, demonstrated his characteristic agility, frequently circling and feinting, looking for openings. Approximately two minutes into the round, Horiguchi landed a stiff punch, a clean connection that momentarily caught Kape’s attention. Unfazed, Kape responded immediately with a powerful shot of his own, which appeared to briefly wobble the former RIZIN champion, signaling that despite Horiguchi’s defensive prowess, Kape’s power was a constant threat. The fighters reset, returning to the center of the Octagon. Horiguchi then showcased his blinding speed, darting in and out of range, attempting to disrupt Kape’s rhythm. However, Kape appeared to be biding his time, patiently setting up his striking combinations rather than engaging in reckless exchanges. Towards the latter half of the round, Horiguchi attempted two takedowns, both of which Kape adeptly shrugged off, demonstrating improved defensive wrestling. Before the round concluded, Horiguchi managed to slip through Kape’s guard with a nasty body kick, a late strike that likely secured the round for the Japanese fighter on the judges’ scorecards, setting a challenging tone for Kape.
The second round commenced with Horiguchi pressing his advantage, capitalizing on the momentum gained from the previous frame. Early in the round, Horiguchi connected with a crisp left hook, a shot that caught Kape off guard and visibly put him on wobbly legs for a brief, perilous moment. Seizing the opportunity, Horiguchi swiftly transitioned into a takedown, skillfully bringing Kape to the canvas. Once on the ground, Horiguchi moved into half-guard, establishing a dominant position and immediately beginning to implement his formidable ground game. While held down, Kape demonstrated resilience and defensive awareness, grappling tightly with Horiguchi to prevent him from achieving full mount or delivering significant ground and pound. Despite the constrained space, Kape managed to throw several short, slicing elbows to the top of Horiguchi’s head, an attempt to create separation or inflict minor damage from an inferior position. However, Horiguchi maintained steadfast control throughout the remainder of the round, showcasing his superior grappling acumen. He effectively stifled Kape’s attempts to escape, consistently applying pressure and limiting Kape’s offensive output. This sustained control allowed Horiguchi to tack on another round to his scorecard, putting Kape in a precarious position heading into the championship rounds, needing a significant shift in momentum to avoid a decision loss.
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As the fight moved into the third and potentially decisive round, a noticeable change in Kape’s approach became evident. Recognizing the urgency of his situation, "Starboy" emerged from his corner with a renewed sense of aggression, immediately pushing the pace and coming out gunning for Horiguchi. He began to loosen up with his striking, unleashing more varied combinations and increasing his volume, seeking to impose his power. Just as Kape appeared to be gaining momentum and finding his rhythm, Horiguchi, ever the veteran, delivered a sharp counter shot that momentarily hit the pause button on Kape’s offensive surge, reminding him of the constant danger Horiguchi posed. The exchange underscored the razor-thin margins in elite-level mixed martial arts, where a single strike can shift the tide of battle.
However, the narrative of the fight was about to take a dramatic and definitive turn. In a pivotal sequence that would decide the outcome, Kape unleashed a brutal right hand. The perfectly timed shot connected flush, immediately putting the Japanese veteran on "rubber legs," his balance compromised and his defensive capabilities severely diminished. The impact was profound, signaling the beginning of the end. A mere second later, Kape capitalized on Horiguchi’s compromised state, driving him to the ground and swarming him with a relentless barrage of punches. With Horiguchi defenseless on the mat, absorbing a rapid succession of blows, Kape delivered the finishing blow: a precise shot that landed under Horiguchi’s arm, causing him to flatten on the mat, face down and unconscious. Referee Herb Dean, recognizing the severity of the situation and Horiguchi’s inability to intelligently defend himself, swiftly intervened, stopping the fight at the 2:42 mark of the third round, saving Horiguchi from further harm. The crowd erupted as Kape secured the emphatic knockout, completing his quest for revenge in spectacular fashion.
In the immediate aftermath of his resounding victory, a jubilant Manel Kape took to the microphone to reflect on the performance and his opponent. Despite the intensity of their rivalry, Kape offered words of respect for Horiguchi, acknowledging the formidable challenge he had overcome. "Kyoji’s an amazing fighter," Kape stated, his voice filled with admiration. "Maybe the best fighter I ever fought in my life. I want to be like him and if I’m here in this position it’s because of Kyoji." This sentiment underscored the profound impact Horiguchi had on Kape’s career trajectory, serving as both a rival and a catalyst for his improvement. Kape also emphasized his own mental fortitude, a trait he believes defines his journey. "One thing about me, I never give up. I face more adversity in life. I knew he was going to touch me at some point. One thing about me, if I touch you one time, believe me, you’re going to be dead." The quote encapsulated Kape’s self-belief and the power he brings to every contest.
The victory marked Kape’s fifth consecutive win, all secured by knockout, a testament to his devastating striking prowess and his ability to finish fights decisively. This dominant run, culminating in the revenge knockout over a high-caliber opponent like Horiguchi, positions Kape firmly at the forefront of his division. Post-fight, Kape wasted no time in articulating his aspirations for the immediate future, making a direct appeal for a shot at the championship. "I don’t know what the plans UFC has," Kape said, addressing the promotion directly. "I fought the best fighter in this division. I need to fight for the belt." His statement reflects a confident fighter who believes he has cleared all necessary hurdles and earned the right to challenge for divisional supremacy. The impressive performance against Horiguchi will undoubtedly bolster his case with UFC matchmakers, placing him among the top contenders in a highly competitive landscape.
For Kyoji Horiguchi, the loss marks a setback in his illustrious career. While he demonstrated flashes of his brilliance and secured the early rounds, Kape’s power proved too much to overcome in the later stages. Horiguchi will now need to regroup and assess his next steps, but his reputation as one of the sport’s elite fighters remains intact. For Manel Kape, however, UFC Vegas 119 was a night of vindication and triumph, a career-defining performance that not only avenged a long-standing defeat but also propelled him into the conversation for a coveted championship opportunity, solidifying his status as one of the most exciting and dangerous fighters in the division. The path ahead for "Starboy" now appears to lead directly towards the highest echelons of the sport.
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