Manel Kape vs Kyoji Horiguchi Prediction & Betting Tips - UFC Fight Night
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by Geoffrey Ejiga | in UFC Predictions
The flyweight division serves up a rematch nearly nine years in the making this Saturday at UFC Vegas 119, as No. 2 contender Manel Kape runs it back with No. 5 Kyoji Horiguchi, the Japanese Veteran. Horiguchi, won the first meeting and opens as a heavy favourite for the sequel, which is why our prediction backs the Japanese veteran.
Starboy arrives as one of the division's hottest strikers, having won seven of his last eight in the UFC with five knockouts. The Angolan's explosive power makes him a threat to anyone at 125 pounds, and a statement finish here would push him firmly into title contention.
Horiguchi, though, has rarely looked better. Now 36-5, the former Bellator and RIZIN champion rejoined the UFC late last year. And in no time, Horiguchi has picked up where he left off, blending crisp striking with elite takedown defence and ring IQ honed over a long, decorated career.
The defining detail remains that 2017 arm-triangle, when Horiguchi submitted Kape in the third round of the RIZIN Grand Prix. Kape has evolved since, but Horiguchi's all-round game and championship pedigree still look the harder puzzle to solve.
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Manel Kape - Kyoji Horiguchi Key Points
- Horiguchi holds a previous victory over Kape, having submitted him with an arm-triangle choke in their first meeting.
- Horiguchi is on an impressive eight-fight unbeaten streak across all professional mixed martial arts competitions.
- During his latest victory against Albazi, Horiguchi displayed a massive strike advantage of 73 to 16.
- Horiguchi showed impeccable defensive execution by successfully stopping all seven takedown attempts from Albazi in his last match.
- Kape has suffered seven professional losses throughout his career compared to just five for his opponent.
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Our Manel Kape vs Kyoji Horiguchi Prediction
Kape's knockout power makes the opening rounds dangerous, and he is a sharper fighter than the one Horiguchi beat in 2017. But Horiguchi offers the more complete package, mixing slick boxing with the takedown defence and composure that have carried him to titles in multiple promotions.
With a previous win over Kape and bookmakers installing him as a clear favourite, the veteran has every tool to control where this fight happens. Expect him to neutralise the power and bank the rounds. Hence, our Manel Kape vs Kyoji Horiguchi prediction is that Kyoji Horiguchi wins.
All tips are fully researched and given in good faith, but profits cannot be guaranteed.
