UFC Fight Night 253 - Kape vs Almabayev: Can Starboy halt the 17-match winning streak of Zulfikar? February 27, 2025 by Marc Jerbs

The highly anticipated main event of UFC Fight Night 253 on March 1, 2025, presents an electrifying showdown between top flyweight contenders Manel Kape and Asu Almabayev, both determined to earn a shot at the division's championship. Set to take place at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, this compelling clash features two fighters with contrasting styles, promising an action-packed battle with high stakes in the competitive flyweight division.

Angola's Manel "Starboy" Kape is renowned for his explosive striking and finishing ability. Boasting a professional record of 20 wins and 7 losses, Kape has established himself as a dangerous knockout artist, with 60% of his victories coming via knockout. His striking efficiency is impressive, averaging 5.05 significant strikes per minute with a 56% accuracy rate.

Kape vs. Almabayev Sports Bet Odds

Manel "Starboy" Kape is the favorite to win the match. Here are our latest odds:

• Kape is the favorite and has a money line of -222.
• Almabayev is the underdog and has a money line of +187.

Kape's last fight saw him deliver a statement victory over Bruno Silva, securing a third-round knockout and reaffirming his reputation as a lethal stand-up fighter. His style is built around fluid, technical striking, utilizing powerful kicks and well-timed counterpunches. His evasive footwork helps him control the distance, setting up devastating attacks while avoiding damage.

However, grappling remains a challenge for Kape. His takedown average stands at just 0.47 per 15 minutes, and past struggles in wrestling exchanges suggest that defending against Almabayev's grappling will be crucial to his success in this matchup.

Kazakhstan's Asu "Zulfikar" Almabayev enters the octagon with an outstanding record of 21 wins and 2 losses, backed by a remarkable 17-fight win streak. A grappling specialist, Almabayev has demonstrated his dominance on the ground, securing 9 of his 21 victories via submission, showcasing his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expertise.

Since making his UFC debut, Almabayev has continued his impressive form, securing notable wins, including a decisive victory against Matheus Nicolau. His relentless grappling style is evident in his 1.7 submission attempts per 15 minutes, and with a 50% takedown accuracy, he has the ability to dictate the fight on the ground. His clinch work and pressure-heavy approach make him a serious threat to Kape's striking-heavy offense.

Almabayev's most recent victory at UFC Fight Night: Hernandez vs. Pereira further cemented his status as a legitimate contender, and a win over Kape would push him even closer to title contention.

This matchup presents a classic striker vs. grappler dynamic, with Kape aiming to keep the fight standing while Almabayev looks to impose his wrestling and submission skills. If Kape can utilize his speed, footwork, and knockout power, he has the tools to overwhelm Almabayev. Meanwhile, Almabayev will be looking to close the distance, secure takedowns, and dominate on the ground to neutralize Kape's striking arsenal.

With title implications on the line, this pivotal bout at UFC Fight Night 253 is set to deliver an exciting and strategic contest. The outcome remains unpredictable, but fans can expect a high-energy battle between two rising flyweight stars, each eager to make a definitive statement in the division. Whether it's Kape's knockout power or Almabayev's grappling mastery that prevails, this fight promises to be a must-watch event for fight fans worldwide.

Kape vs Almabayev Tale of the Tape

Manel Kape		Asu Almabayev
20-7-0	Record	21-2-0
Win	Last Fight	Win
5' 5"	Height	5' 3"
125 LBS	Weight	125 LBS
68.0"	Reach	65.0"
39.0"	Leg Reach	36.0"
56%	Significant Strikes	56%
58%	Strikes Defense	59%
33%	Takedown Accuracy	50%
77%	Takedown Defense	50%