Manel Kape Ready to Make a Statement

Manel Kape exuded confidence in his interview and is eyeing a title shot following a victory over Asu Almabayev.

Kape is ranked #6 but has only one recent loss, a split decision against Muhammad Mokaev, which was a strange fight overall. Kape will likely move into the top five with a victory over Almabayev, so a title shot wouldn’t be out of the question.

Asu Almabayev Talks Opponent Switch

With a perfect 4-0 UFC record, Almabayev jumped at the opportunity to face Kape in the main event. He was originally scheduled to face Steve Erceg; however, Erceg is now fighting Brandon Moreno at UFC Mexico City, so Almabayev stepped in for Brandon Royval. “I wrote to my managers right away and said I’m ready to fight." The Kazakh fighter sees this as his chance to prove he belongs in the title conversation, and with the volatile flyweight division, anything could happen.

Cody Brundage Returns with Renewed Focus

Cody Brundage returns in the co-main event following his no-contest against Abdul Razak Alhassan. He spoke to the media about taking time off to reset. -

Brundage admits that he struggled with retirement questions but now feels refreshed and is looking to make a statement against Julian Marquez.

Julian Marquez Knows He Needs a Win

After three straight losses, Marquez has had time to reassess. Despite being a must-see fighter, he recognizes that he needs to bounce back this weekend. “Nothing’s more embarrassing than getting knocked out in front of millions, but each fight isn’t who I am.” Marquez also mentioned that he and Cody Brundage have trained together in the past but doesn’t hold any ill will toward Brundage for taking the matchup.

Nasrat Haqparast Eyes the Top 15

Haqparast, now in his 14th UFC fight, believes a win over Ribovics puts him right on the doorstep of the rankings. He's riding a four-fight winning streak, including victories over Jared Gordon and Jamie Mullarkey. “I’ve been here eight years. It’s about consistency and longevity. I think it’s a big accomplishment to survive in the UFC when you're so young.” Haqparast believes he’s entering his prime despite his long UFC career and feels that a win over Ribovics will earn him a ranking in the division.

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