The UFC flyweight division has entered a new era. At UFC 323, Joshua Van shocked the world by defeating Alexandre Pantoja and becoming the new flyweight champion.
The win did not just change the title picture; it completely reshaped the future of the division.
Now, with questions surrounding Pantoja’s injury and recovery timeline, the UFC may already be preparing its next big championship fight.
If Alexandre Pantoja cannot return quickly, there is one clear and deserving name standing in line, Manel Kape.
After his dominant win over Brandon Royval, the conversation around the next flyweight title challenger has become louder than ever.
This article breaks down why Manel Kape makes perfect sense as the next opponent for Joshua Van, how Pantoja’s injury complicates the rematch, and why fans could witness one of the most exciting flyweight title fights in recent years.
Joshua Van’s Rise to Flyweight Champion
Joshua Van’s journey to the UFC flyweight title is one of the most impressive stories in recent MMA history.
Still young, still improving, and already fighting with championship-level composure, Van proved at UFC 323 that he belongs at the very top of the division.
Against Alexandre Pantoja, many expected Van to struggle with experience, grappling pressure, and championship pacing. Instead, Van stayed calm, defended well, and capitalized when the moment came.
The fight took a dramatic turn when Pantoja suffered a serious arm injury during the bout, which eventually led to the stoppage.
While some fans debate the nature of the finish, there is no denying one thing: Joshua Van won the fight and became the undisputed UFC flyweight champion.
Now the question is simple: who is next?
Alexandre Pantoja’s Injury and the Rematch Problem
Alexandre Pantoja has been one of the most respected flyweights in the UFC for years.
His reign as champion was built on toughness, pressure, and elite grappling. Naturally, many fans believe Pantoja deserves an immediate rematch against Joshua Van.
However, the reality of the situation is complicated.
During the fight at UFC 323, Pantoja suffered a broken arm after an awkward landing early in the bout.
The injury clearly affected his ability to continue, and the referee was forced to step in.
Because of this, there is sympathy around Pantoja’s loss and support for a second fight.
The major issue is time.
A broken arm is not a short-term injury. Recovery, rehabilitation, and full fight readiness could take many months. The UFC flyweight division cannot remain on hold while the champion waits indefinitely.
Joshua Van is healthy, active, and ready to defend his belt. From a business and sporting perspective, the UFC needs a challenger who is available now.
This is where Manel Kape enters the picture.
Manel Kape’s Statement Win Over Brandon Royval
Manel Kape made a loud and clear statement at UFC Fight Night: Kape vs Royval.
Facing Brandon Royval, a former title challenger and one of the most dangerous fighters in the division, Kape delivered a stunning performance.
The fight did not last long.
Kape stopped Royval by TKO in the first round, showing sharp striking, speed, and finishing instincts. It was not just a win, it was a dominant victory over a top contender.
This performance instantly pushed Manel Kape to the front of the title conversation.
After the fight, Kape did not hesitate to call for the belt. He openly stated that with Pantoja injured, he is the most deserving fighter for a title shot.
What made the moment even more interesting was Joshua Van’s response.
Van agreed.
Joshua Van vs Manel Kape: Mutual Respect and Readiness
Championship fights often need promotion, trash talk, and long build-ups. In this case, the matchup sells itself.
Joshua Van has already shown respect toward Manel Kape and made it clear that he is willing to face him.
Van understands that being a champion means fighting the best available contender, not waiting on uncertain timelines.
Manel Kape, on the other hand, has waited patiently for his moment. After ups and downs in the UFC, Kape has finally put everything together.
His striking is sharp, his confidence is high, and his timing could not be better.
- Both fighters are healthy.
- Both fighters want the fight.
- Both fighters are in their prime.
From the UFC’s perspective, this is the ideal scenario.
Why Manel Kape Deserves the Next Title Shot
There are several strong reasons why Manel Kape stands out as the most logical challenger for Joshua Van.
Recent Performance
Kape’s first-round TKO over Brandon Royval is one of the most impressive flyweight wins in recent memory. Royval is known for his durability and unpredictability, yet Kape handled him with ease.
Activity and Availability
Unlike Pantoja, Kape is healthy and ready to fight. The UFC values active champions and active contenders, especially in lighter divisions where momentum matters.
Experience at the Top Level
Kape has faced elite competition across multiple organizations. His experience on big stages gives him credibility as a title challenger.
Fan Interest
Kape’s striking style is exciting. His fights rarely go the distance, and fans know they are likely to see action from the opening seconds.
All signs point to Manel Kape being the right opponent at the right time.
Style Breakdown: Joshua Van vs Manel Kape
If this fight happens, fans are in for something special.
Joshua Van’s Strengths
Joshua Van is a complete fighter. He has clean striking, solid defense, and a strong understanding of fight pacing.
What separates Van from many young champions is his calmness under pressure. He does not rush, does not panic, and makes smart decisions inside the cage.
Van’s durability and fight IQ allow him to adjust mid-fight, which is crucial against a dangerous opponent like Kape.
Manel Kape’s Strengths
Manel Kape is explosive. His speed, power, and accuracy make him one of the most dangerous strikers in the flyweight division.
Kape is especially dangerous early in fights, where his timing and counterstriking can end the night quickly.
If Kape finds his rhythm, he can knock out anyone at 125 pounds.
What Makes This Fight Special
This matchup is not about grappling dominance or slow control. It is about movement, timing, and precision.
Both fighters prefer to strike, both have knockout power, and both believe they are the best in the world.
That combination almost guarantees an exciting title fight.
What Happens to Pantoja?
While Manel Kape and Joshua Van may move forward, Alexandre Pantoja is far from finished.
Once Pantoja recovers from his injury, he will still be a major force in the flyweight division. Whether he returns to fight the winner of Van vs Kape or takes a contender bout first, his name will remain relevant.
The UFC has a history of rewarding former champions, but health and timing matter. Right now, the division must move forward.
Pantoja’s comeback story could become even bigger if he returns to challenge a new dominant champion.
UFC’s Perspective: Business and Momentum
From a promotional standpoint, Joshua Van vs Manel Kape makes sense.
- It keeps the flyweight title active
- It rewards recent performance
- It delivers an exciting matchup that fans want to see
- It avoids long delays caused by injury
The UFC thrives on momentum, and right now, Manel Kape has it.
A Potential Fight of the Year Candidate
If Joshua Van defends his title against Manel Kape, the fight has all the ingredients to become one of the best flyweight title fights in years.
Fast pace, high-level striking, real knockout threats, and championship stakes, everything fans love about MMA will be on display.
Before Alexandre Pantoja makes his return, the division may witness an absolute war for the flyweight title.
Final Thoughts
Joshua Van’s title win at UFC 323 marked the beginning of a new chapter in the flyweight division.
While Alexandre Pantoja’s injury creates uncertainty around an immediate rematch, it also opens the door for a fresh and exciting challenge.
Manel Kape has earned his position. His win over Brandon Royval, his confidence, and his readiness make him the most deserving contender right now.
If Pantoja is not ready, then the path is clear.
Joshua Van vs Manel Kape for the UFC flyweight title is the fight to make, and it could be an absolute banger.