RIZIN FF bantamweight champion Manel Kape signs with the UFC

Photo Credit: RIZIN FF

The bantamweight ranks of the UFC has received a new addition. Recent RIZIN FF bantamweight throne-holder. Manel Kape has officially signed with the promotion following nine fights with the Japan-based organization. Portugal-born Kape has managed three straight wins over the course of last year, finishing his time with the promotion following a vacant bantamweight title win over Kai Asakura. News of the signing was initially reported by Combate writer, Raphael Marinho.

Kape, 26, has spent three years under the RIZIN FF banner and holds a professional record of 15-4. The Porto based striker has made short work of the majority of the competition, grabbing an impressive four knockout wins in the promotion. Before his rematch win over foe, Asakura, Kape had lodged victories over UFC alumni, Takeya Mizugaki, Ian McCall, and Seiichiro Ito. His only losses in his time with RIZIN FF came against former Octagon features, Ulka Sasaki, the decorated Kyoji Horiguchi, and the aforementioned, Asakura.

Kape, who's regarded as one of the most talented prospects among his bantamweight peers today - follows former RIZIN FF light heavyweight champion, Jiři Procházka to the UFC, who signed a multi-fight deal with the promotion earlier this year. As of yet, no official opponent has been matched for Kape's much-anticipated debut.

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