UFC 304: Muhammad Mokaev Tames Manel Kape in Tactical Victory

UFC 304: Mokaev vs. Kape

In a night filled with anticipation and drama, Muhammad Mokaev emerged victorious over Manel Kape at UFC 304, settling their heated rivalry with a unanimous decision win. Despite the pre-fight tension, the bout itself turned out to be a cautious and strategic contest.

Months before stepping into the octagon, Mokaev and Kape had clashed at the UFC Performance Institute, escalating into a hotel brawl just days before the fight. Security measures were heightened to prevent any further altercations until the bout commenced. However, the intensity seemed to fizzle once the action began, with both fighters reluctant to engage aggressively.

Throughout the 15-minute fight, Mokaev was more active, securing a late takedown, while Kape landed the more significant strikes. The judges ultimately favored Mokaev with scores of 29-28, 29-28, and 30-27. After his win, Mokaev acknowledged Kape’s effort, saying,

“I’m 23 years old, 7-0 in UFC. Give [an ovation] to Manel Kape. I’m still young. I’m fighting these veterans. I want a title shot.”

The first round saw both fighters hesitating, with Mokaev using kicks to maintain distance and Kape struggling to find his range. Kape managed to stuff a takedown attempt and landed quick punches that caught Mokaev off guard. The second round featured a brief exchange that led to Kape appearing to injure his toe while blocking a kick, which hampered his performance for the rest of the fight.

Mokaev capitalized on Kape’s injury, advancing for a takedown. However, a foul involving a grab of Kape’s shorts prompted referee Mike Beltran to pause the action and issue a stern warning to Mokaev, though no points were deducted. As the fight resumed, Kape continued to struggle with his injured toe, impacting his mobility and effectiveness.

Despite the cautious approach, Mokaev managed to secure a takedown and engage in a ground-and-pound exchange, with both fighters landing shots before returning to their feet. Mokaev's persistence with his kicks and wrestling attempts kept him ahead, while Kape's injury hindered his performance.

In the end, Mokaev's strategy paid off, earning him a unanimous decision victory. With this win, Mokaev called for a new contract and expressed his desire for a title shot. As he continues to rise in the flyweight division, Mokaev remains a formidable contender, having overcome another top opponent in Kape.