Portugal’s sole male UFC fighter, Manel Kape, showcased a tremendous performance in the main event of UFC Vegas 103. Taking on Asu Almabayev in a high-stakes 125-pound contest, ‘Starboy’ recorded his 13th career knockout, deeming himself as the “best” flyweight in the division, and has his eyes set on Alexandre Pantoja. However, a former UFC fighter seems to have taken issue with Kape’s claims after his recent win.

Despite 21 career wins, Manel Kape has 7 losses to his name, and one of them came against the undefeated Muhammad Mokaev. The buildup to their fight was as heated as it could have been. They brawled in the hotel lobby prior to their fight last year, and almost got into a brawl during the weigh-ins and before their fight commenced at UFC 304.

While the Mokaev isn’t in the UFC anymore, he made sure to remind the Angolan-born Portuguese star about edging past him in comfortable fashion at UFC 304, which was also ‘The Punisher’s final outing in Dana White’s promotion. “There’s only one best flyweight in the world,” Muhammad Mokaev stated on social media, reminding Manel Kape about his dominance during his UFC stint.

Well, there’s a lot of animosity between the two, but Manel Kape butting heads with Muhammad Mokaev again under the UFC banner may not be possible at the moment. Instead, ‘Starboy’ is focused on winning the flyweight title. Meanwhile, Alexandre Pantoja seems to be aware of the danger Kape poses after watching his recent performance. In fact, ‘The Cannibal’ joined the Portuguese star during the post-fight interview and complimented his rival. Here’s what Alexandre Pantoja had to say.

Alexandre Pantoja praises Manel Kape as ‘Starboy’ looks to ‘steal’ flyweight title

Alexandre Pantoja, during the post-show on ESPN, congratulated Manel Kape on his victory as both rivals shared smiles. For a long time, the flyweight division hasn’t got the attention it deserves, given that the division consists of some of the most technical fighters in all of MMA. After the performance Kape delivered against Asu Almabayev, Pantoja seemed happy that ‘Starboy’ was able to show people what 125-ers can do inside the Octagon.

“All I can say Manel [is that was ] a beautiful victory. That’s making flyweight big,” said Alexandre Pantoja. “Why me and Manel respect each other is because, in the past, a lot of people talk bad things about my division; Manel’s division… we prove that the flyweight [division] is one fire.” While Kape appeared appreciative of the words, he made his intentions clear about gunning for a title fight and is willing to take on the other surging rival racing towards a title shot, Kai Kara-France.

“Pay attention Pantoja and Kai Kara-France… Be ready, because I’m gonna steal that belt like I steal candy from my daughter,” Manel Kape said during the Octagon interview. Well, it remains to be seen where the road leads the Portuguese star to in the coming months.

Meanwhile, let us know what you think of Muhammad Mokaev’s taunt on Manel Kape. Do you think he’ll ever come back to fight for the UFC gold? Drop your comments below.