vs
-400 +350
UFC on ESPN: Covington vs. Buckley · Dec 14, 2024 · Flyweight · Completed
Prev Fight UFC on ESPN: Covington vs. Buckley Next Fight
Age 32
Height 5' 5"
Reach 68.0"
Weight 125 lbs.
Stance Southpaw
Age 36
Height 5' 4"
Reach 65"
Weight 125 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Career Averages - Manel Kape
5.04 SLpM
56.0% Str. Acc.
4.08 SApM
57.0% Str. Def.
0.4 TD Avg
30.0% TD Acc.
81.0% TD Def.
0.3 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Bruno Silva
3.95 SLpM
51.0% Str. Acc.
4.69 SApM
51.0% Str. Def.
2.01 TD Avg
25.0% TD Acc.
72.0% TD Def.
0.2 Sub. Avg
Manel Kape
Moneyline
FanDuel -400
KO/TKO
BetWay +275
Submission
BetWay +1400
Decision
FanDuel +105
Bruno Silva
Moneyline
Caesars +350
KO/TKO
FanDuel +1100
Submission
DraftKings +1800
Decision
BetRivers +650
Manel Kape - Fight History
SCHED vs Kyoji Horiguchi
KO R1 3:18 · UFC on ESPN: Royval vs. Kape · Dec 13, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Brandon Royval 0 17 of 26 65% 17 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Manel Kape 1 17 of 23 73% 18 of 24 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Brandon Royval 0 17 of 26 65% 17 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Manel Kape 1 17 of 23 73% 18 of 24 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Brandon Royval 17 of 26 65% 5 of 10 6 of 8 6 of 8 17 of 26 0 of 0 0 of 0
Manel Kape 17 of 23 73% 6 of 10 5 of 6 6 of 7 15 of 21 0 of 0 2 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Brandon Royval 17 of 26 65% 5 of 10 6 of 8 6 of 8 17 of 26 0 of 0 0 of 0
Manel Kape 17 of 23 73% 6 of 10 5 of 6 6 of 7 15 of 21 0 of 0 2 of 2
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Brandon Royval vs. Manel Kape
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Kape (-300); Royval (+240)

Round 1
This main event is a flyweight tilt many have circled on the calendar the day it was announced. Always in a wild scrap, Royval (17-8, 7-4 UFC) has reached all but the pinnacle of his division as bounces around the top five. After some delays and scrubbed pairings, he finally gets to take on the brick-fisted Kape (21-7, 6-3 UFC). The talk is over, the prep is finished, and it’s time for some action. Referee Herb Dean ushers the two to the center of the Octagon to issue final instructions and elicit a glove touch, which is heard and answered by the athletes. It’s on with the show, this being the final UFC bout on ESPN (unless they sign back with ESPN in 2033).
Kape marches Royval down immediately lobbing a hard calf kick at him to greet him. Royval answers him back. Violent pleasantries exchanged, the two get to it for real. Royval lands a side kick to the ribs, and Kape keeps targeting the lead leg. Royval answers in kind, and swipes out with a right hand on the way back. Kape chips at the front wheel once more with his low kick, and Royval makes sure to pay him back immediately. Royval lets rip a body kick that lands with a loud slap, and he kicks with the other leg which makes a thumping sound instead. Royval punches his way into a low kick combination, and he tags Kape upstairs to interrupt a combo. Another hefty body kick from “Raw Dawg” lands flush, who then targets the calf. Kape swings himself off-balance with a big kick, gathering himself in time to dodge a kick flying at his face.
Royval tosses up a high kick, and Kape rushes him. Something appears to bother Kape, who has to suddenly back off and put his hand on the fence. Oddly enough, the same thing happens to Royval, who looks to have jammed his toes on a kick. Kape walks him down and blasts him in the face with a ferocious right hand that puts him down for the count. “Starboy” unleashes a final barrage of fists while Royval tries to sit up and recover, knocking the Factory X fighter clean out and then switching him back online again. Dean sees when Royval goes limp a second time, and he intervenes. Royval is trying to stand at the time, but he is on wobbled legs and thinks to protest but decides against it. Cooler heads bring him over to his corner so that he can sit down and talk to his team now that the fight is over, and Kape hurries over to talk to someone seated outside of the cage. Ending the ESPN era with one destructive flurry, Kape ties the UFC flyweight record for the most knockouts in divisional history, tying Joe Benavidez with five.
The triumphant Kape challenges new flyweight king Joshua Van for his belt, claiming that he will, and we can’t make this up, “take his diapers.” Sometimes these things happen in MMA. With this 12-fight show in the books, the ESPN era of the UFC is now complete. With the winter break upcoming, there will be a whopping six weeks until the next UFC card on Jan. 24, a gap with no events not seen since the COVID-19 pandemic shut the sport down for a few months in 2020. There will be a few more major fight cards in 2025, with PFL Africa next week and Rizin’s NYE spectacular coming up soon. We will be there for them, and we hope you are too.

The Official Result
Manel Kape def. Brandon Royval R1 3:18 via KO (Punches)
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Dec 10, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Brandon Royval

Cody picks Royval as a plus money underdog, citing his infinite cardio, pressure, and volume. He believes Royval's improved striking and grappling will allow him to outwork Kape over five rounds, especially in deeper waters. He notes Kape's power but thinks Royval's chin can hold up and that Royval will win a close decision by outlanding him in significant strikes.

"I am going to chase that plus money on Brandon Royval. It's a five-round fight. And again, as far as I'm concerned, Brandon Royval is built for these 25-minute long fights."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Dec 7, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Lucrative James picks Manel Kape confidently, arguing that Brandon Royval's aggressive, pressure-heavy style plays into Kape's hands. He notes Kape's superior boxing, timing, and power, and believes Kape will hurt Royval multiple times, though a knockout is uncertain given Royval's durability. He projects Kape as a -250 favorite.

"I'm going to pick Manel Cape in this fight. I'm going to pick Minnel Cape fairly confidently in this fight."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Dec 10, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Brandon Royval

Paul agrees with Cody, also taking Royval at plus 250. He highlights the Felipe dos Santos fight as evidence that Kape can be pushed in a striking battle, and doubts Kape can maintain high volume for 25 minutes. He sees Royval's durability and output as key factors.

"It's Brandon Royval plus 250 for me as well."
WIN vs Asu Almabayev
KO R3 2:16 · UFC Fight Night 253 · Mar 01, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Manel Kape 0 61 of 115 53% 62 of 119 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:29
Asu Almabayev 0 40 of 80 50% 40 of 81 0 of 6 0% 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Manel Kape 0 19 of 40 47% 20 of 43 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Asu Almabayev 0 14 of 28 50% 14 of 28 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
2 Manel Kape 0 14 of 27 51% 14 of 28 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Asu Almabayev 0 18 of 40 45% 18 of 40 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
3 Manel Kape 0 28 of 48 58% 28 of 48 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:29
Asu Almabayev 0 8 of 12 66% 8 of 13 0 of 4 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Manel Kape 61 of 115 53% 47 of 95 11 of 17 3 of 3 46 of 94 9 of 15 6 of 6
Asu Almabayev 40 of 80 50% 19 of 55 13 of 17 8 of 8 38 of 77 2 of 3 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Manel Kape 19 of 40 47% 15 of 33 3 of 6 1 of 1 19 of 40 0 of 0 0 of 0
Asu Almabayev 14 of 28 50% 7 of 20 6 of 7 1 of 1 14 of 27 0 of 1 0 of 0
2 Manel Kape 14 of 27 51% 10 of 23 2 of 2 2 of 2 14 of 27 0 of 0 0 of 0
Asu Almabayev 18 of 40 45% 7 of 27 6 of 8 5 of 5 17 of 39 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Manel Kape 28 of 48 58% 22 of 39 6 of 9 0 of 0 13 of 27 9 of 15 6 of 6
Asu Almabayev 8 of 12 66% 5 of 8 1 of 2 2 of 2 7 of 11 1 of 1 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Manel Kape vs. Asu Almabayev
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Kape (-205), Almabayev (+170)

Round 1
Rather than throwing hands with Brandon Royval, Kape (20-7, 5-3 UFC) gets a new foe on relatively short notice. Having prevailed in his last 17 outings including four in the UFC, Kazakhstan’s own Almabayev (21-2, 4-0 UFC) is ready to become a title contender. The wild flyweight stylistic clash will be overseen by referee Mike Beltran, who brings the two to the center of the cage to issue final instructions and bump fists. It’s on with the show. In alternate stances, they hand-fight early without engaging. Both men have their lead hands pop into each other until Almabayev springs into action with a powerful, audible body kick. Kape circles away and kicks the lead leg back. A lull in fight leads to a funny call from the audience, and Kape suddenly explodes forward with two left hands. Almabayev bounces off the wall and responds with an overhand right that comes up short, and Kape again charges him with a left. Almabayev ducks down and fires off a right hook and follows with a body kick, and Kape takes some time before again bursting straight ahead. Two quick blitzes from “Starboy” make Almabayev shrug his shoulders before kicking the body, and Kape brushes his arm to signals the kick did not land. Kape crashes in with a left, getting close enough to push himself past a spin kick from the Kazakhstan native. Kape reaches his opponent with two punches and wipes at his eye, with Almabayev possibly scraping him in the left eye when pushing off to escape. Kape cracks Almabayev again with his explosive, leaping punch, and Almabayev rebounds and stumbles off the fencing before gathering himself. Kape times a left and opens up with a right, hurting the streaking Almabayev and opening a cut around his left eye. Almabayev has a head kick blocked, and Kape attacks with a fury, snapping Almabayev’s head back and bouncing him off the fencing once more. Almabayev jabs, and he shoots for a single as Kape races at him. Kape shuts it down without concern, walks through a spinning elbow and puts six punches in rapid succession on Almabayev’s head and body. Kape’s swinging fists lead to Almabayev trying to grab hold of him, and Kape shoves him back and walks off. The round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Dayne Fox scores the round: 10-9 Kape

Round 2
Almabayev’s eye has taken some serious damage from Kape’s knuckles, with blood appearing in the eyeball itself and not just leaking down his nose. Almabayev starts off the rounds in hopes of not letting Kape reach him by measuring out front kicks. A failed level change from Almabayev allows Kape to catch him with a punch, and Kape allows him to kick him so he can find his way in. As Kape backs off, he ducks to anticipatorily evade a spinning back kick. Kape measures more carefully than before, not lunging nearly as often, perhaps due to the threat of the takedown. Almabayev scores a left hand, and Kape brushes his shoulder off. When Kape threatens to come in, Almabayev fires off a head kick, and he leaps at Kape with a knee. Kape stands back, marches in to swing and gets clipped with a left hook. “Starboy” shrugs it off entirely and keeps advancing, backing off only when a spin kick flies by his face. Almabayev loads up on a power leg kick, turning his hips into the strike, and Kape quickly changes stances. Almabayev scores a left hand and fires off a head kick, and Kape barely blocks the kick in time. Almabayev splits the guard with an effective front kick, and Kape is stuck staring at him, feinting but not engaging with much more than single strikes. One such right hand scores, and Kape settles himself down and then suddenly leaps forward with a flying knee. When landing, he dings Almabayev with a right hand, and he lets Almabayev rebound off the wall and wags his finger at him. Almabayev rips a left hand to the body and narrowly misses a right over the top, and Kape walks him down and slips, recovering his footing to wipe his foot off. Kape then spins with a wheel kick, and he runs at Almabayev with fists flying. Almabayev signals to Beltran that he was poked in the eye, and Kape declares that it was a punch. After just a couple seconds, the replay official states it was a punch, and he restarts the fight. Kape charges again with leaping punches, catching Almabayev at the end of a right before the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Dayne Fox scores the round: 10-9 Kape

Round 3
The flyweights are so amped to get back to it, Beltran has to back them off before clocking them in. Kape takes the center of the cage and has his guard up to defend a body kick, but a low kick from Almabayev lands cleanly and trips Kape up. Kape strides forward, hurling punches at the midsection of his opponent, and Almabayev circles away to take the sting out of them. Kape probes his way in and has his front leg kicked hard, and he shrugs it off to punch Almabayey square in the jaw. Almabayev strikes back just as cleanly, and Kape maintains the pressure to make Almabayev have to sprint away. Almabayev shoots for a takedown, and when it fails, he has to back off. Kape surges forward throwing hands, and Almabayev claims he was poked again in the eye and tries to call time out. Beltran is having none of it—even though it was actually a swipe on his eyeball—and Almabayev desperately shoots. Kape shuts it down and lays into Almabayev with concussive punches.
As Kape lays it on with knees and punches, Almabayev turns tail and runs away, and Kape sprints after him hitting him whenever he can reach him. Beltran follows them closely as the 125ers speed around the Octagon, and after he catches up to a retreating Almabayev, he decides to wave the fight off.
At that moment, Almabayev was shooting for a double, but Beltran may have interpreted the running from one end of the cage to the other as physically surrendering and intervened. There will be much to discuss regarding Beltran and how this fight played out, including two uncalled eye scrapes—but Beltran is the sole arbiter of the bout, and fighters cannot call time-out. There may also be some debate on the specific nature of the stoppage, as Beltran stepped in several seconds after Kape landed any strikes, and therefore would be classified differently than a standard finish like via punches or some specific blow. No matter the exact method, it goes down as a technical knockout for “Starboy,” who demands two things: a title shot, and for his daughter to be allowed in the cage and into his arms. The promotion ushers her in, and she asks if Kape won. He proudly says he did, and that he is the best. It is very likely that Kape will have an opportunity to prove he is indeed the best flyweight in the world in his next encounter, in a rematch with champion Alexandre Pantoja, who bested him in 2021. If that fight happens next, we will be here for it. We hope you are too.

The Official Result
Manel Kape def. Asu Almabayev R3 2:16 via TKO (Retirement)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Feb 23, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Angelo picks Manel Kape because of his explosive striking and southpaw pressure, noting that Almabayev's takedown success (1/6 in his last fight) is a major concern. He believes Almabayev needs to threaten takedowns to neutralize Kape's striking, but doubts he can do so effectively. Angelo also mentions a potential live bet opportunity if Almabayev fails to secure early takedowns.

Live bet opportunity if Almabayev fails to secure early takedowns
"cop is going to have to be the pick here but it is possible that a su could win this fight the same boring ass way Manel lost to MV threaten the takedowns paralyze the Striking"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Feb 24, 2025 (5 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Big Brady picks Manel Kape, citing his improved takedown defense and striking advantage. He notes Asu Almabayev is stepping up in competition and likely cannot hold Kape down. He expects Kape to stuff takedowns and win by decision, but warns that Kape sometimes fights passively.

Kape by decision
"I got to go cop here I think cop is going to be able to stuff the takedowns... I'm going to pick cop to win this fight by decision"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Feb 27, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Connor picks Kape, emphasizing that Kape is a pressure counter-puncher who will make Almabayev work under pressure, unlike Nicolau who gave Almabayev free distance. He notes that Almabayev's approach against Nicolau was rudimentary and that Kape's speed and power will be a problem. Connor also mentions that Kape is much more talented than Nicolau and that Almabayev's level of competition hasn't been high.

Same odds commentary as Zane.
"I'm gonna pick top two. But yeah it could be one of those fights where we're literally just watching two people circle each other for two rounds until one of them hits the other one."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 26, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Manel Kape

The host expects Kape to use his defensive grappling to shut down Almabayev's game. Once Almabayev decides to strike, that will be the beginning of the end, as Kape should land more effective strikes and possibly find a knockout, but ultimately win on the scorecards over 25 minutes.

"cap to utilizes defensive grappling to shut down that game of alv and once alv decides to strike with him that will be the beginning of the end as cap should be able to land more effective strikes might be …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 28, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Manel Kape

The Guru picks Manel Kape over Asu Almabayev. He believes Kape is the truth and will become champion. He praises Kape's recent performance against Bruno Silva and his takedown defense. He notes Kape's power advantage and finishing potential, predicting a TKO in the second or third round.

"I'm going with Manel cap... I'm actually going to go with Manel capap getting himself a TKO in the second or third round."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Feb 27, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Zane picks Kape because he is faster, more powerful, and more dynamic than Almabayev. He notes that Almabayev struggled against a similar counter-puncher in Nicolau, and Kape is a pressure counter-puncher who will maintain distance aggressively, forcing Almabayev to work under pressure. Zane acknowledges the risk of a boring decision loss but believes Kape's speed and power will find openings over five rounds.

Kape opened at -264, now -205; Almabayev opened +197, now +190. Zane says he wouldn't like to see it get any wider, implying the line is fair.
"But I'm still gonna pick mental cop. I think yeah rounds five rounds is a lot of time for cop to simply find a few openings."
WIN vs Bruno Silva
TKO (body kick and punches) R3 1:57 · UFC on ESPN: Covington vs. Buckley · Dec 14, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Manel Kape 1 111 of 168 66% 111 of 168 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Bruno Silva 0 57 of 112 50% 60 of 115 0 of 5 0% 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Manel Kape 0 32 of 48 66% 32 of 48 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Bruno Silva 0 19 of 34 55% 21 of 36 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
2 Manel Kape 0 39 of 66 59% 39 of 66 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Bruno Silva 0 27 of 43 62% 28 of 44 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
3 Manel Kape 1 40 of 54 74% 40 of 54 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Bruno Silva 0 11 of 35 31% 11 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Manel Kape 111 of 168 66% 71 of 127 18 of 19 22 of 22 109 of 165 2 of 2 0 of 1
Bruno Silva 57 of 112 50% 27 of 74 21 of 29 9 of 9 55 of 110 2 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Manel Kape 32 of 48 66% 21 of 37 2 of 2 9 of 9 31 of 47 1 of 1 0 of 0
Bruno Silva 19 of 34 55% 7 of 18 10 of 14 2 of 2 18 of 33 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Manel Kape 39 of 66 59% 25 of 52 5 of 5 9 of 9 38 of 65 1 of 1 0 of 0
Bruno Silva 27 of 43 62% 13 of 27 7 of 9 7 of 7 26 of 42 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Manel Kape 40 of 54 74% 25 of 38 11 of 12 4 of 4 40 of 53 0 of 0 0 of 1
Bruno Silva 11 of 35 31% 7 of 29 4 of 6 0 of 0 11 of 35 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Manel Kape vs. Bruno Silva
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Kape (-345), Silva (+275)

Round 1
Keith Peterson will referee the final flyweight fight on the UFC calendar. Kape's striking looks extremely quick. Silva throws out some kicks but eats a right hand for leaving it out. Nice leg kick by Kape, who then follows it up with punches. A big overhand right for Silva lands. A low blow hits Kape. The fight is restarted after a brief break. Silva keeps getting caught by Kape after he throws out leg kicks. Kape is the faster fighter. Kape gets kicked in the groin again. No point is taken. Kape finishes off the round in control and misses a spinning back fist.

Sherdog Scores
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kape

Round 2
Silva charges forward, trying to get a takedown attempt, but it's unsuccessful. Kape catches Silva with a hook. Silva gets hurt with a right hook. Kape taunts him and then lands a huge right hand as well. Silva's power is just not respected by Kape. Yet another low blow as Kape goes down. Peterson finally takes a point from Silva. Kape looks reenergized. After hitting Silva with a right hook, Kape mocks him and dances as he avoids another punch. Incredible theater here and quite embarrassing for Silva, who is getting clowned up despite landing several illegal strikes. A solid right hand lands for Silva. Kape finishes the round with a solid body kick.

Sherdog Scores
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-8 Kape
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-8 Kape
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-8 Kape

Round 3
Silva comes out recklessly swinging as he knows he needs a finish. A right hand cracks Kape, but he doesn't show any signs of being hurt. Kape is continuing to piece up Silva, landing a combination of punches to the body. Silva walks backward into the fence while Kape lands hooks to the body. Silva charges forward and lands a left hook.
Kape lands a brutal body kick, and Silva turtles up. Kape continues with a flurry of punches, and Silva falls to the floor.
Peterson waves it off as Silva has no fight left in him.

The Official Result
Manel Kape def. Bruno Silva via TKO (Punches); R3, 1:57.
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Dec 8, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Angelo picks Kape as the cleaner, more technical striker with better footwork. He notes Kape's speed, explosiveness, and ability to bounce in and out of range, while Silva is a tough bruiser who is good everywhere but not technical. He expects Kape to win by decision due to Silva's toughness, and sees value in Kape's odds.

Likely decision win; sees value in odds.
"Bruno Silva is good but Manel cop is better it's literally that simple... cop wins this fight likely a decision because of the toughness on the other side and I think there's still some value in his odds."
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Big Brady picks Manel Kape to win by second-round knockout, but is hesitant due to Kape's inconsistency. He notes Kape has looked like a star in some fights but has also had terrible performances where he did nothing. He thinks Kape has a major skill advantage and should finish Silva, but is not sure he will show up.

"I'll go Manel cop I'll take him to win this fight by second round knockout I think he has a major skill Advantage here but the problem with cop is I don't think he always um utilizes all his skills"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Cody picks Bruno Silva as a live underdog, citing Manel Kape's history of tentative performances and poor output. He notes Silva's power, durability, and recent knockout wins, and believes Silva's willingness to push the pace will expose Kape's tendency to sit back. Cody also mentions Silva's training at Fight Ready with high-level partners.

"I actually got Bruno Silva yeah partly because this is a crazy number and one it's a flya away fight but that aside it's like Bruno Silva is one of these guys that's going to give you full effort."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Connor picks Kape, acknowledging Silva's toughness and well-roundedness but noting that Kape's athleticism and speed are superior. He thinks Silva's best chance is to pressure, but that plays into Kape's counterpunching. Connor expects a slow fight where Kape eventually lands a big shot.

Kape opened at -254, now -357; Silva opened at +219, now +293
"I would, if I had to guess, I think we'd see a bit of both. Slow burn. Silva gets touched a little more, gets frustrated, comes out really hot, trying to get some momentum back and gets nuked."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Daniel Vreeland picks Manel Kape to win by knockout, citing Kape's fast hands and explosiveness. He notes that Bruno Silva is tough and will stand and trade, which plays into Kape's strengths. Vreeland believes Kape can hurt Silva more than Cody Durman did, and that a finish is likely. He mentions Kape's past issues with overconfidence but thinks he will perform well here.

by KO
"I'm gonna go manell cap to come out here knock out Bruno Bulldog Silva and earn a title shot"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Lucrative James picks Manel Kape to win, citing Kape's accuracy, athleticism, and durability. He acknowledges Bruno Silva's power and grappling upside, but believes Kape's sharpshooting and ability to land heavy blows will prevail. He notes Silva's recent poor performance against Cody Durden and Kape's overall skill advantage, though he admits Silva has value as an underdog.

"I think Manel cape's going to win I just think he's too much of a sharp shooter I think he's too accurate I think he's too athletic I think he hits too hard."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Kape's explosiveness, power, and speed will be too much for Bruno Silva. He will land the more damaging strikes, which could lead to a finish, but the prediction is for Kape to win on the scorecards.

wins by decision
"I believe the explosiveness power and speed of cop will end up being too much for Bruno here I look for a cap to land the more damaging and significant strikes which could lead to a finish But ultimately my …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Paul leans towards Bruno Silva, agreeing with Cody that the price is too high on Kape. He notes Kape's inconsistency and Silva's power and durability. Paul sees this as a dogger pass situation and is willing to take the plus money on Silva.

"I think it's another dogger pass type of situation I just don't really know how invested I want to be in Bruno Silva this week."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Manel Kape

The MMA Guru picks Manel Kape, acknowledging Bruno Silva's underrated skills and finishing ability but believing Kape's takedown defense and durability are underrated. He notes that Kape has never been finished and has gone the distance with champions like Pantoja. He predicts Kape will win by TKO or decision, possibly with a flying knee. He dismisses Silva's wins as against lower-level competition.

flying knee TKO possibility
"I'm going to go with Manel cap regardless and I'm going to say he gets this one done by TKO maybe a decision where he hurts Bruno Silva on a few occasions though instead"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Zane picks Kape despite his low-output style, because Kape's speed and explosiveness are too much for Silva. He notes that Silva is a counterpuncher who may struggle to time Kape's sporadic attacks, and that if Silva pressures, he risks getting countered. Zane thinks Silva will eventually get frustrated and get 'nuked'.

Kape opened at -254, now -357; Silva opened at +219, now +293
"I think it might be close, but it just hard, very hard to see burn herself actually winning. Isn't it?"
LOSS vs Muhammad Mokaev
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC 304: Edwards vs. Muhammad 2 · Jul 27, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Muhammad Mokaev 0 30 of 82 36% 47 of 102 3 of 8 37% 0 0 2:11
Manel Kape 0 20 of 48 41% 34 of 67 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:04
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Muhammad Mokaev 0 10 of 29 34% 10 of 29 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Manel Kape 0 7 of 16 43% 7 of 16 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
2 Muhammad Mokaev 0 10 of 32 31% 10 of 32 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:12
Manel Kape 0 10 of 19 52% 11 of 20 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Muhammad Mokaev 0 10 of 21 47% 27 of 41 2 of 4 50% 0 0 1:59
Manel Kape 0 3 of 13 23% 16 of 31 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Muhammad Mokaev 30 of 82 36% 11 of 39 13 of 22 6 of 21 27 of 78 2 of 2 1 of 2
Manel Kape 20 of 48 41% 16 of 39 4 of 7 0 of 2 20 of 48 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Muhammad Mokaev 10 of 29 34% 2 of 10 5 of 8 3 of 11 10 of 29 0 of 0 0 of 0
Manel Kape 7 of 16 43% 6 of 14 1 of 1 0 of 1 7 of 16 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Muhammad Mokaev 10 of 32 31% 2 of 12 6 of 12 2 of 8 9 of 31 1 of 1 0 of 0
Manel Kape 10 of 19 52% 7 of 13 3 of 5 0 of 1 10 of 19 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Muhammad Mokaev 10 of 21 47% 7 of 17 2 of 2 1 of 2 8 of 18 1 of 1 1 of 2
Manel Kape 3 of 13 23% 3 of 12 0 of 1 0 of 0 3 of 13 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Manel Kape vs. Muhammad Mokaev
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Mokaev (-130), Kape (+110)

Round 1
Sparks are soon to fly as the prelims—on ESPNews for the time being—will treat fans to a grudge match. Initially booked against one another a few months ago, Kape (19-6, 4-2 UFC) failed to make weight and the flyweight scrap against Mokaev (12-0, 1 NC; 6-0 UFC) fell through. Bad blood brewed as the two jawed at one another constantly and may have even come to blows at least once before settling it in the cage. They get to handle their business once and for all, and referee Mike Beltran and added security in the cage make sure that things do not get out of hand. Unsurprisingly, the flyweights have no interest in touching gloves as the battle begins. Mokaev sprints at his opponent, and Kape is ready to wing a right hand and stumbles after throwing it so hard. Mokaev nods at him and lets loose with a high kick that skims off the shoulder, and he tosses out a low kick that partially lands. Kape parries a front kick as the crowd releases “ole ole ole” chants, and the pace is surprisingly calm given the intensity of the pre-fight antics. Kape walks his man down but does not commit to any strikes of note, and Mokaev gets away with slapping the lead leg with a kick. The audience is quick to grow restless after the fever pitch of anticipation leading up to it, as the two flyweights do practically nothing. Mokaev prods with kicks while Kape just stands and measures him. When Kape lands a strike, he sends Mokaev staggering back, and he does not follow him and stays calm. Mokaev splits the guard with a front kick off the abdomen, and Mokaev is warned for outstretched fingers as he keeps his hand pointed out. Mokaev misses on two low kicks, and the fans hammer the fighters with boos while Beltran calls for action. Kape lunges with a straight left hand, and he slips when stepping back. Mokaev lands a push kick to the groin, and Kape waves him off and lets Mokaev land another body kick. Mokaev keeps slapping with low kicks, and he spins with a sudden wheel kick that grazes off Kape’s head. Kape darts forward with fists outstretched, and Mokaev defends against them. Kape crowds him again and gets off a left to the body, and he resets and eats a low kick. Kape throws one back, and he gets jabbed and kicked in response. Mokaev kicks up high, and Kape walks through a left hook and another groin kick before leaping at Kape with a knee. Mokaev drops down and goes for a takedown, and Kape stops it and cracks him with a few punches. Kape opens up with a left hand that hurts Mokaev, who shoots for a takedown that is easily thwarted. The disappointing round ends with Kape bouncing back.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Mokaev
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Mokaev

Round 2
Mokaev does not take a seat between rounds, staring his opponent down the whole time. The second round begins and the two meet in the middle, and they pump-fake with hips but do not throw anything. Kape hops around switching stances, and he blocks a jump knee. Mokaev pushes out a front kick to the sternum, and Kape is warned for outstretched fingers. Mokaev tags him with a right hand, and he blocks a kick that breaks his toe. Kape goes to adjust his busted toe, and Mokaev runs at him attempting a knee but does not get to him. Kape continues to shake out his right foot, and he is ginger on it. Kape stops a takedown in the open cage, but a scramble results in Mokaev on top. Mokaev yanks on Kape’s shorts several times, nearly pulling them off, and Beltran calls time and angrily shouts at Mokaev for the egregious foul. Beltran takes away the position—a point should be taken but is not for some reason—and tells Mokaev it is his final warning. Kape appears better, and Mokaev reaches out and pokes him in the eye. Kape turns around, and Beltran notes the foul but does not call time, instead telling Kape to fight on. Kape suddenly turns around and stops a takedown, and he is irritated but gathers his thoughts and manages to get off a short left hand. Mokaev gets off a body kick, and Kape adjusts his shorts a few times. Kape smiles, and he times a counter left hand when Mokaev overextends. Kape walks through a punch and starts talking the Dagestani fighter down, landing two punches and eating a knee on the way as well. Mokaev gets enough space to push out a few kicks, and Kape throws a low kick and dips his way in but elects not to strike. Kape jumps at his man with two hooks, and he lands at the end of a left hand. Kape powers off another left hand, and Mokaev responds with a body kick. The horn sounds, and scorecards could be all over the map already.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Mokaev
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Mokaev
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Mokaev

Round 3
Before the last round opens, Beltran brings in the doctor to examine Kape’s toe, and he is cleared to continue although Beltran says he will keep an eye on it. They begin the final frame, and Kape stands in the center of the Octagon pawing out jabs. Mokaev slaps him in the face with a high kick, who races at him and misses on punches. Mokaev threatens back with a single, and Kape stonewalls him and leaps forward with a left hook that comes up short. Kape lets go with three punches, but only one partially connects. Mokaev jabs to intercept the advancing Kape, and he has a head kick disrupt him as well. Mokaev jumps after a takedown and is stopped in his tracks, and he gets to his feet and hops away from the lunging Angolan. Kape plants a one-two on the jaw, and he is met with a quick head kick that slaps him upside the head. Mokaev reaches with a low kick to the rear leg, and he retreats around the outer edge of the cage to not let Kape land on him. Mokaev beats his man to the punch, but he eats a left hand as his head is leaning against the wall. Mokaev goes after a single, and Kape defends with a guillotine choke as soon as he hits his back. Mokaev signals that he is not concerned, and he tries to yank his head out of danger and eventually succeeds. Kape goes wild from his back, spamming hacking elbows that stun Mokaev. Kape continues elbowing his man on the top of the head, and Mokaev gets busy with a few punches to the body. Kape pushes off the hips and rolls for a kneebar, and he lets it go to stand back up and push Mokaev away with 40 seconds left. Mokaev points to the floor to signal that they brawl, and Kape does not bite and fall victim to a takedown. Kape shoots for a low single, and Mokaev stops it and punches him in the face. Kape dings him back, and he gets dragged to his seat as he complains about an eye poke. Mokaev holds him down, and the audience boos them heartily. The flyweights immediately bury the hatchet, hugging it out as security watches closely. It’s anyone’s guess how this fight will be scored, but neither man put forth an effort worthy of a title fight in their next outing.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Kape (29-28 Kape)
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Mokaev (30-27 Mokaev)
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Mokaev (30-27 Mokaev)

The Official Result
Muhammad Mokaev def. Manel Kape via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jul 21, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Muhammad Mokaev

Angelo picks Muhammad Mokaev despite his poor striking performance in his last fight, attributing it to a staph infection. He believes Mokaev's relentless wrestling will be the difference, as Manel Kape may be hesitant to let his hands go due to takedown fear. Angelo notes that Kape is a much better striker but expects Mokaev's pace and wrestling to win out.

"I still think Muhammad Mia is going to win this fight he is the pick"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jul 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Muhammad Mokaev

Cody picks Muhammad Mokaev, citing his improving wrestling and grappling. He notes that Mokaev has been getting better at controlling opponents on the ground and that Manel Kape has shown poor takedown defense and cardio. Cody believes Mokaev's constant takedown threats will neutralize Kape's striking and lead to a decision win.

Muhammad Mokaev by decision
"I'll take Makai of Makai of by decision but uh it's a flyweight fight Paul like you know expect the unexpected."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Jul 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Daniel believes Manel Kape is the more well-rounded fighter with superior striking and experience. He thinks Mokaev's takedowns won't be enough to hold Kape down, and Kape will hurt Mokaev on the feet, potentially finishing him. He predicts a knockout.

wins by KO
"I'm gonna go manell cap to hand Muhammad makv his first ever UFC defeat"
JE
Jeff Fox Expert Confident picked Jul 25, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Jeff picks Manel Kape as his dog of the week. He admits he may have faded Mokaev too much in the past, but believes Kape is one of the best flyweights. He thinks what Mokaev showed against Alex Perez is not enough to beat Kape.

"I'm gonna go manil k uh I I've maybe been fading Mohamad MV more than I ought to in the past but like I just don't think what we saw out of him in that Alex Perez fight is enough …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Jul 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Paul leans towards Manel Kape as a dog, citing the value at plus 130. He believes if the fight stays on the feet, Kape has a clear advantage. However, he acknowledges that Mokaev's wrestling is a major threat and that Kape has been taken down before. Paul calls it a 'dogger pass' situation but is tempted by the line.

"I want to bet Manel cop and that line keeps kind of growing and they're just like begging me to bet him."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 22, 2024 (5 days before fight)
Manel Kape

The MMA Guru picks Manel Kape by TKO in the second round. He believes Kape is levels above Mokaev on the feet and has better takedown defense, having trained with Dagestani wrestlers. The Guru notes that Mokaev has struggled on the feet against Alex Perez and often needs to clutch wins in the third round. He expects Kape to stuff takedowns and land damaging strikes, possibly cutting Mokaev and finishing him in round two. He also mentions Kape's potential for fouling as a factor in his favor.

TKO in round 2
"I'm going to go with Manel cap I think he's way better on the feet and after watching makv on the feet against Perez he has no idea what he's doing on the feet at times"
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 293: Adesanya vs. Strickland · Sep 10, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Manel Kape 1 112 of 182 61% 116 of 186 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:45
Felipe dos Santos 0 99 of 304 32% 101 of 310 0 of 5 0% 0 0 0:08
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Manel Kape 1 36 of 55 65% 38 of 57 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:28
Felipe dos Santos 0 32 of 96 33% 32 of 96 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:08
2 Manel Kape 0 37 of 61 60% 37 of 61 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Felipe dos Santos 0 35 of 102 34% 35 of 103 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
3 Manel Kape 0 39 of 66 59% 41 of 68 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:17
Felipe dos Santos 0 32 of 106 30% 34 of 111 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Manel Kape 112 of 182 61% 77 of 137 24 of 30 11 of 15 92 of 149 6 of 9 14 of 24
Felipe dos Santos 99 of 304 32% 53 of 215 28 of 60 18 of 29 94 of 292 4 of 8 1 of 4
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Manel Kape 36 of 55 65% 18 of 35 13 of 15 5 of 5 28 of 43 2 of 2 6 of 10
Felipe dos Santos 32 of 96 33% 13 of 65 13 of 20 6 of 11 31 of 92 1 of 4 0 of 0
2 Manel Kape 37 of 61 60% 26 of 46 7 of 8 4 of 7 32 of 53 3 of 6 2 of 2
Felipe dos Santos 35 of 102 34% 19 of 69 9 of 22 7 of 11 34 of 100 1 of 2 0 of 0
3 Manel Kape 39 of 66 59% 33 of 56 4 of 7 2 of 3 32 of 53 1 of 1 6 of 12
Felipe dos Santos 32 of 106 30% 21 of 81 6 of 18 5 of 7 29 of 100 2 of 2 1 of 4
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Felipe dos Santos vs. Manel Kape
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Kape (-410), dos Santos (+320)

Round 1
The UFC lost a terrific flyweight matchup of Kape (18-6, 3-2 UFC) vs. Kai Kara-France due to the latter’s concussion issue, and it tried to make the most of a bad situation by shuttling in a fighter who was going to make his mark on the Contender Series a few weeks ago. Instead of an audition, dos Santos (7-0, 1 NC; 0-0 UFC) is thrust right into a pay-per-view main card, with the lights blindingly shining. A win for the Brazilian would be one for the ages as he would immediately jump into the rankings, but the hard-charging Kape will not go easy on him. Referee Greg Kleynjans takes charge of the cage for this “featured fight of the night,” and Kape is happy to still be fighting tonight so he offers a glove touch that is accepted. The two fighters clash together with immediate kicks, and Kape throws back with higher volume. The Brazilian wings a left hand over the top, and Kape gets stung but fires back with a vengeance. Kape connects with a low kick, and he gets knocked back with a jab. “Starboy” launches a rocket of a right hand that separates dos Santos from his balance, and Kape jumps on top of him and starts dropping strikes down until dos Santos throws his legs up for a desperation submission. Kape backs off to let him up, and he drives his fists into dos Santos’ dome a few more times to rock the newcomer once again. Dos Santos swings wild, and Kape is more composed and snipes him with a left hand. Kape paws out his jab and clips dos Santos on the way in with a short left, and when he kicks, dos Santos catches it. Kape tumbles to the mat, and as they scramble, Kape moves on top of him and busts him in the chops with several heavy punches. Kape gets pushed off and the two get back to striking, and dos Santos surprises the big favorite with a right hand and a knee up the middle. Kape is surprised but ready to keep attacking, and he walks into a front kick. Dos Santos is met with a leg kick, and he powers forward throwing hard but missing by a small margin. The Brazilian follows a jab with a head kick, and the two clinch up and start trading knees. Kape breaks with a big left hand, and dos Santos rolls with it and walks forward to swing with a haymaker. Kape times a spinning back elbow right on the dome, and the younger dos Santos eats it like a sandwich and keeps powering forward. Kape has a foot grabbed when kicking, and dos Santos tries to throw him down but Kape grabs the fence to stay upright. Kape muscles his man down to the mat, only to back off and keep trading. The two men get off power punches, and Kape scores a body kick and an elbow. Kape walks him down and smashes him in the face with a right hand, and dos Santos gives him one right back. A furious trading of fists ends the exciting round.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Edwin Ayala scores the round: 10-9 Kape

Round 2
The flyweights do not race out of their corners this round, and instead dos Santos slowly wades forward reaching out with kicks. Kape slides out of the way of all of them, including a head kick that grazes his hair, and he returns fire with a low kick. When dos Santos commits to one in response, Kape drills him with a left hook. Dos Santos spams front kicks until charging forward with a right hook, and Kape takes the punches and counters, only to have his head snapped back with a right. Dos Santos kicks high as it bounces off the guard, and he spins with something but does not let it go. Instead, he settles down to fire off a right hand, and Kape trips him to the mat with a stern leg kick. Dos Santos climbs back up and connects with two low kicks, and he rushes forward and gets popped by a shovel uppercut of a right hand. Kape puts everything behind a right hand, and dos Santos slips it and counters, and Kape keeps his head movement active as well to make for an exciting near-miss exchange. Kape sits down on a right hand as dos Santos crashes the pocket, and the newcomer’s chin is impressive. Dos Santos gets off a jumping front kick, and both men smack one another in the face with right hooks. The two trade jabs, and Kape goes to the body and slips the long left that aims past his head. Kape counters a jab with three punches, and he staggers dos Santos with a left hook. The Brazilian wears it well once more, and he chains two punches together on the inside to drive dos Santos back. Kape digs his shin into dos Santos’ thigh, and he cracks dos Santos with a few punches. From up close, dos Santos spins with a kick, and it brushes into the cup but it is not called. Kape motions to his groin, and when it goes ignored, Kape surges into action and starts ripping into dos Santos with a flurry of ferocious fists. Dos Santos survives the assault and races forward, and Kape times an elbow right on the way in. Kape pierces the guard with a right hand, and he puts his hands behind his back. Dos Santos motions to him to hit him, and the two showboat and taunt at one another until the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Edwin Ayala scores the round: 10-9 Kape

Round 3
Kape allows dos Santos to come at him so he can lean back and bat dos Santos in the jaw with a clubbing right hand. Dos Santos meanders forward, letting Kape kick him so he can try to front kick his way in. Kape does not allow him to close the distance, and instead tags the unbeaten fighter with a right hand. Dos Santos, not to be outdone, runs at him and reaches Kape with two punches. When Kape knocks him back, dos Santos replies, but Kape works the body as well. Dos Santos kicks the chest and swings hard, and he clips Kape and gets popped in return. The Brazilian lands a kick and gets tripped up, and when he gets back up, he connects with several punches that rock and cut Kape on the corner of his left eye. Despite the damage, Kape is excited when he gets blasted, and he chambers and fires a right hand that stuns dos Santos and knocks him down to a knee. Dos Santos races forward with a jump knee, and he pressures forward giving Kape everything he can handle with high volume and decent power. Kape moves enough to take the sting out of the shots, and puts himself in position for an effective counter. Kape times a huge right hand that snaps dos Santos’ chin to the side, but dos Santos is not shaken and he continues moving forward. Kape lets go with a flurry of hands, and dos Santos blinks it out and has entered “Terminator” mode. Despite taking shots, dos Santos will not back down, and even throws a spinning kick. Kape is composed and calm enough to time his counters, and he lets dos Santos charge at him and busts him in the chops. As dos Santos gets a bit too wild, Kape times a takedown and takes dos Santos off his feet. When on top, Kape rains down a final barrage of punches to conclude the fantastic scrap. Both men climb on top of the cage to motion to the crowd, and despite the all-out battle that Kape delivered, the crowd boos him heartily. What a fight.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Kape (30-27 Kape)
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Kape (30-27 Kape)
Edwin Ayala scores the round: 10-9 Kape (30-27 Kape)

The Official Result
Manel Kape def. Felipe dos Santos via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Sep 3, 2023 (7 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Angelo picks Manel Kape, saying it should be Kape all day. He notes that Kape can control range and pace with more technical striking. Felipe is dangerous but hittable and reckless. Kape should be safe to parlay. Angelo sees a clear path for Felipe but doesn't think he can walk through Kape's shots.

Safe to parlay
"This should be Manel cop all day cops should be able to control the range the pace and have the far more technical striking"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Sep 5, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Big Brady confidently picks Manel Kape, citing his high-level competition and recent finishes. He notes dos Santos is a big step down and can be taken down. He thinks Kape will knock him out in the first round.

"I see monel cop knocking out Felipe dos Santos in the very first round"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Sep 6, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Cody picks Kape confidently, citing his explosive power, superior striking, and experience against top competition. He notes that dos Santos is a young, green replacement on short notice with limited tape, and that Kape should win either by early finish or smart game plan. Cody acknowledges flyweight volatility but believes Kape is the clear pick.

"this is cops fight to lose man no I think he's got a milk gun pretty much everywhere"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Sep 7, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Daniel Levi is very confident in Manel Kape, having placed a bet on him at minus 340. He believes Kape should be a much heavier favorite, lining him at 83-88% to win. Levi notes that dos Santos stands straight up and walks forward, leaving openings to the body and head. He predicts a body shot knockout. He respects dos Santos's potential but thinks Kape is on the road to a title shot.

Bet placed at minus 340. Levi says he lined Kape at 83-88% and should be minus 500 to minus 750. Predicts body shot KO.
"This is my first bet of the night I took Manel cap actually at minus 340 a few days ago and here's why."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Sep 7, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Lucrative James believes Manel Kape is the better striker and will likely knock out Felipe dos Santos in round one. He notes that dos Santos fights like a lunatic, walking forward with pressure, but that style won't work against Kape's level. James acknowledges Kape can be low volume and has shown quit under pressure, but he thinks dos Santos's aggression will force Kape to crack him. He also mentions Kape's takedown and submission potential as additional paths.

"I think monarchy is going to roll here guys"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Sep 6, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Kape has tremendous experience and is difficult to deal with in the striking realm. He crashes the pocket and lands big shots. Dos Santos is a UFC newcomer who was scheduled for the contender series; this is a massive step up. Kape should be motivated and finish emphatically, possibly earning a highlight reel finish.

"I fully expect cop to eventually land that big shot and get the win in this fight"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Sep 6, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Paul picks Kape, noting that dos Santos is too green and that Kape's takedown defense and striking should be enough. He mentions that Kape may even be able to wrestle to secure rounds. Paul's only concern is that Kape might not throw enough, making the fight close, but he believes Kape covers the price.

"cop minus 370 no I don't like it but pretty pretty clear pick for me cop"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 4, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Manel Kape

The MMA Guru picks Manel Kape over Felipe dos Santos, calling him 'the based one.' He notes that Kape has improved since his debut loss to Pantoja, with impressive finishes over Zhalgas Zhumagulov and David Dvorak. Dos Santos is 7-0 but has a split decision over a 5-2 regional opponent, which is not enough to pick him over Kape. He predicts Kape will have some trouble in round one but find a finish in round two or three.

finish in round 2 or 3
"I'm gonna go with manil cap"
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Cannonier vs. Strickland · Dec 17, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Manel Kape 0 33 of 94 35% 55 of 122 2 of 3 66% 0 0 2:42
David Dvořák 1 58 of 119 48% 67 of 136 0 of 0 --- 2 1 0:57
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Manel Kape 0 6 of 15 40% 16 of 26 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:59
David Dvořák 0 2 of 9 22% 7 of 18 0 of 0 --- 2 1 0:17
2 Manel Kape 0 14 of 33 42% 25 of 48 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:29
David Dvořák 1 37 of 63 58% 38 of 68 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:40
3 Manel Kape 0 13 of 46 28% 14 of 48 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:14
David Dvořák 0 19 of 47 40% 22 of 50 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Manel Kape 33 of 94 35% 17 of 68 6 of 12 10 of 14 31 of 91 1 of 2 1 of 1
David Dvořák 58 of 119 48% 33 of 85 19 of 26 6 of 8 44 of 99 5 of 5 9 of 15
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Manel Kape 6 of 15 40% 2 of 9 0 of 2 4 of 4 5 of 14 0 of 0 1 of 1
David Dvořák 2 of 9 22% 2 of 7 0 of 1 0 of 1 2 of 9 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Manel Kape 14 of 33 42% 6 of 19 5 of 8 3 of 6 13 of 32 1 of 1 0 of 0
David Dvořák 37 of 63 58% 22 of 45 14 of 16 1 of 2 24 of 44 4 of 4 9 of 15
3 Manel Kape 13 of 46 28% 9 of 40 1 of 2 3 of 4 13 of 45 0 of 1 0 of 0
David Dvořák 19 of 47 40% 9 of 33 5 of 9 5 of 5 18 of 46 1 of 1 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
David Dvorak vs. Manel Kape
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Kape (-240), Dvorak (+200)

Round 1
Flyweights grace the cage next in a surprisingly important matchup for divisional relevance, surprising in how low this fight is placed for one that will determine a top-10 fighter at 125 pounds. Dvorak (20-4, 3-1 UFC) currently resides within that range, while Kape (17-6, 2-2 UFC) aims to break in and likely hunts for a dramatic finish to get there. With only five decisions across their 37 pro wins, referee Keith Peterson expects no nonsense here. There is no bad blood, as the contenders touch ‘em up before aiming to knock the other’s block off. The fighters are tentative to begin, heavily respecting the power of the other. Dvorak stays on the outside well out of striking range, and he scores one calf kick before darting away. Kape lines up his heavy overhand right but does not launch it, as Dvorak strafes away. Kape begins to showboat by putting his hands behind his back, hoping that he will draw Dvorak into an engagement, and he switches stances to give chase. Dvorak sinks in another powerful calf kick, and Kape is quick to changes stances to protect that lead wheel. Kape walks into a kick, and Dvorak continues to move and do circles around the cage. When Dvorak goes after another kick, Kape springs into action with a few punches, and Dvorak escapes in the nick of time. Kape charges and scores an uppercut, and as he attempts to follow it, Dvorak intercepts him and hits a speedy takedown to land in side control. When “The Undertaker” looks to pass to mount, Kape drags him back to his guard and closes it. Dvorak exerts heavy shoulder pressure and tries to weigh heavily, and Kape throws a few strikes from off his back. Kape gets stacked up and cracked with a left hand, and he fights off a Kape triangle or armbar setup. Kape isolates the left arm for a kimura, possibly looking to sweep his foe, and Dvorak settles for elbows to the thigh and side to answer. Kape keeps cranking the arm, and he gets it out and puts it behind Dvorak’s back and rolls his foe over. Dvorak fights with all his might to tough it out, and Kape torques it to a nasty angle but does not get the tap he seeks. The round ends before he can achieve the submission, but it might have won him the round.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Edwin Ayala scores the round: 10-9 Kape

Round 2
Doctors check Dvorak between rounds to make sure his left arm has not taken any serious damage, as he held it walking back to his corner. He shows the medical staff he can stretch his arms just fine, and he is cleared to continue. The second round begins cautiously again, as Dvorak does not throw much from that hurt wing, but he doubles down with right hands when Kape comes at him. Kape waits for the perfect shot, staying in the center of the cage without using much offense, and springing into action every so often. Dvorak sees the blitzes coming and circles away from the power, moving laterally when Kape changes stances to chase. Kape bears down on his man and cracks him with two short punches, and he hops away when “The Undertaker” wings a right hand at him. Dvorak times a big right over the top, but it is one-and-done as Kape counters and misses. Dvorak thumps a calf kick home to prompt a change in stances, and he walks straight into a flying knee. Kape lines up a right hook and ducks straight into a head kick, but he eats it without issue and plods forward. Kape points at his damaged opponent and staggers him with a short salvo, doing enough to make Dvorak falls to his back. Dvorak aims upkicks while Kape attempts to finish the job, and he survives and even throws a wild kick off his back to nearly slap Kape in the face. “Starboy” calls him to stand back up, and he marches forward to rip the body with a pair of punches, Kape knows his foe is in trouble, and he bust him up with punches to the head and ribcage. Dvorak is tough, and he absorbs a clean spinning back elbow on the jaw and times the movement perfectly to shove Kape over, move on top and take Kape’s back. Nearly able to reach for a rear-naked choke, Dvorak elects to heel kick the side and posterior until the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Edwin Ayala scores the round: 10-9 Kape

Round 3
Fists get bumped to start off the last round, and Dvorak’s movement and footwork is back beneath him after having the minute to clear his head. Dvorak swings and misses with two lunging hooks, and he dips back when Kape swats at him with a left hook. Dvorak begins to press forward, and he reaches up with spinning high kick. Kape dodges and showboats to look around and away, and Dvorak lunges in to strike. Kape intercepts him with a low kick and a short left hand, but Dvorak continues to move and throw in response. Dvorak gets a right hand over the top, and he closes in and gets uppercutted for his work. Kape is in his element, sniping with strikes and busting the Czech fighter’s nose open. When Kape leaps in, Dvorak pushes off with his fingers out, and Kape calls an eye poke. Peterson sees the possible foul, assesses that it was a legal but odd push-off, and restarts them. Dvorak goes low with a calf kick and scores a left, and Kape begins to start dribbling an invisible basketball. Dvorak races in with a takedown, knowing he is likely down on the scorecards, and Kape is too slick to get hold of him for long. Dvorak comes in with a jab, and Kape puts his hands behind his back and leans forward. When Kape attempts to set up a knee, Dvorak catches him with a left hook, but Kape does not mind. Dvorak lands again, and Kape gets caught but still continues to motion and make fun of his opponent. Dvorak gets hit on the way in, but he connects with his own punches until they crash together. Peterson checks to make sure the two did not clash heads, and he resets them in the clinch. Dvorak pushes off and swings with all his might, tagging Kape with a left and a right. Kape dances out of the way and swaggers off, with “The Undertaker” unable to catch him before the final bell rings.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Kape (30-27 Kape)
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kape (30-27 Kape)
Edwin Ayala scores the round: 10-9 Kape (30-27 Kape)

The Official Result
Manel Kape def. David Dvorak via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2022 (6 days before fight)
David Dvořák

Angelo picks David Dvořák, believing his technical soundness and leg kicks will neutralize Manel Kape's explosiveness. He expects a somewhat boring fight similar to Dvořák's last one, with Dvořák chopping down the tree and taking a decision. He notes Kape can be hesitant and lets opponents set the pace.

Plans to bet on Dvořák plus 3.5 (bet online exclusive) because he thinks Dvořák can win or at least lose a 29-28 decision
"I like Dvorak to chop down the tree and take the decision this is a striker for Striker but I do think it's gonna be a pretty boring fight"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Dec 15, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Big Brady likes Kape to finish Dvořák, noting Kape's 94% finish rate as a flyweight. He acknowledges Kape can be low-volume and has lost decisions when he doesn't let his hands go, but in recent fights he's been more active. He thinks Kape's takedown defense has improved, and if he keeps it on the feet he'll land a big shot. He predicts a second-round knockout.

Kape wins by KO in round 2
"I like cop here I think is very dangerous I like him to finish Dvorak and I will say he does finish him in the second round"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Dec 14, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Cody picks Kape, noting his dynamic striking and power. He thinks Kape has turned a corner with his aggression and volume. He notes Dvořák is durable but low output, and Kape's shots will matter more. He expects Kape to get the job done.

"sign me up from mental copy get the job done"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Dec 15, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Connor picks Kape, citing his fight-changing power and athleticism. He notes Dvořák got rocked multiple times by Nicolau and Kape is faster and more powerful. He thinks Kape's pressure will be effective and that Dvořák's consistency may not overcome Kape's danger.

"I just can't really look at that nikolov fight in particular and see dvorak just getting rocked so many times without leaning towards mano cop"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Dec 17, 2022 (fight day)
David Dvořák

Dvořák has many paths to victory if he stays safe. He was a -125 favorite against Nico last time, showing his potential. After one loss, Kape is now a big favorite, which doesn't make sense. If the fight goes the full 15 minutes, the +205 will look good. Dvořák needs to stay conscious.

1 unit at +205
"Dvorak has a lot of uh paths to Victory here if he can stay safe uh which is possible"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Dec 14, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Paul picks Kape but is not confident, noting both fighters are low volume. He thinks the minus 235 is scary if it goes to decision. He sees Dvořák as the value side but picks Kape for the show.

"I'll pick cop for the purposes of the show but not a spot that I have very very much confidence in"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Lean picked Dec 13, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Manel Kape

The MMA Guru picks Manel Kape over David Dvořák, believing Kape should have beaten Matheus Nicolau and has looked impressive against Zhalgas Zhumagulov and Ode' Osbourne. He questions Dvořák's level, noting his close fight with Nicolau and lack of explosiveness. He sees Kape as more explosive with higher finishing potential and good work on the outside, where Dvořák operates. He predicts a 29-28 or 30-27 decision win for Kape.

"I'm going to be going with manil cap here over David Dvorak"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Dec 15, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Zane picks Kape, noting he is a more dangerous, faster, harder-hitting fighter. He thinks Dvořák is consistent but Kape's power is rare at flyweight. He acknowledges Dvořák could find a back take in a scramble but expects Kape to hit him hard enough to prevent that.

"It is really just a simple athleticism pick like cop it's just a more dangerous faster harder hitting fighter"
TKO (punches) R1 4:02 · UFC on ESPN: Font vs. Aldo · Dec 04, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Manel Kape 2 53 of 72 73% 54 of 73 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Zhalgas Zhumagulov 0 31 of 79 39% 31 of 79 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Manel Kape 2 53 of 72 73% 54 of 73 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Zhalgas Zhumagulov 0 31 of 79 39% 31 of 79 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Manel Kape 53 of 72 73% 39 of 56 5 of 7 9 of 9 53 of 72 0 of 0 0 of 0
Zhalgas Zhumagulov 31 of 79 39% 19 of 61 6 of 11 6 of 7 31 of 78 0 of 1 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Manel Kape 53 of 72 73% 39 of 56 5 of 7 9 of 9 53 of 72 0 of 0 0 of 0
Zhalgas Zhumagulov 31 of 79 39% 19 of 61 6 of 11 6 of 7 31 of 78 0 of 1 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Manel Kape vs. Zhalgas Zhumagulov

Round 1
When this flyweight fight ends, one of the two competitors between Kape (16-6, 1-2 UFC) and Zhumagulov (14-5, 1-2 UFC) will likely lift their UFC record to .500 and earn their second victory under the organization’s banner. In this classic battle of Angola vs. Kazakhstan, referee Keith Peterson may have his hands full overseeing what could be a fast-paced contest, but there will be no nonsense allowed while it takes place. Kape is amped up, and Peterson backs him off several times, and there is no sign of respect with a glove touch. Kape leaps out of his corner when the round begins in an attempt to beat Jorge Masvidal’s record, but Zhumagulov sees it come and pushes it away. Kape pops him with a right hand on the way out, but Zhumagulov is not fazed and pressures Kape with a few big punches. As Kape goes low with a kick, Zhumagulov tags him with an overhand right that knocks Kape back to the wall and draws a huge smile on his face. Zhumagulov does not get too aggressive, instead finding his range with an uppercut and a right hand. Zhumagulov trips, but he gathers himself before Kape can take advantage of it. The Kazakh marches Kape down, but he does not do so recklessly into a counter that Kape sets up in the form of a huge right hand. Zhumagulov steps forward with a knee, and he snaps a jab out that surprises Kape. They trade quick punches, and Zhumagulov follows up an exchange with a leg kick. When Kape lands with another kick to the calf, Zhumagulov jumps forward to drill him in the face. Zhumagulov checks one such kick, and he evades the leaping knee that soars at his chin. Kape tries to stick and move, only for Zhumagulov to follow him with a pair of punches that land flush. Zhumagulov swings a kick that collides into the thigh, and he rushes in with a punch salvo that Kape cannot escape in time. Kape lands with a left and a right, only for him to get countered on the way out. Kape continues to connect with leg kicks, and he sits down on a right hand that knocks Zhumagulov to his seat. Kape cannot keep Zhumagulov down, so when Zhumagulov stands, he busts him up with a few big right hands that send him careening to the wall.
Seeing he has his man hurt, Kape opens up with a brutal series of punches to the head and body and tees off on Zhumagulov. Zhumagulov tries to shell up and protect himself from the onslaught, but lightning-quick strikes get through and drop Zhumagulov down to the ground.
Peterson intervenes as soon as Zhumagulov slumps over, and Kape may very well have saved himself from a pink slip with an emphatic knockout over an opponent that had only been finished once in his career, back in 2015.

The Official Result
Manel Kape def. Zhalgas Zhumagulov R1 4:02 via TKO (Punches)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Dec 1, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Zhalgas Zhumagulov

Angelo picks Zhalgas, liking the odds at +190. He notes Zhalgas is a chain wrestler with relentless pressure, and Manel has a negative striking differential and makes IQ mistakes. Angelo thinks Zhalgas can win via takedowns or cage control, but is nervous about the line moving.

1 unit at +190 (considered but not yet placed)
"i like zalgas here i i like the odds are worrisome before i even saw the odds i just saw the match up and i was like well zalgas right that's easy"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Nov 30, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Big Brady picks Manel Kape to win by knockout. He believes Kape is the more skilled and well-rounded fighter, with better striking, wrestling, and BJJ. However, he expresses frustration with Kape's low volume, noting that if Kape would throw more, he could be a serious problem. He thinks Kape's 94% finish rate suggests he will finish Zhumagulov, who has been knocked out before. Brady is confident but not overly so due to Kape's tendency to underperform.

by knockout
"give me uh manel cop to win by knockout here"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert picked Dec 1, 2021 (3 days before fight)

Cody agrees with Paul, not making a pick. He thinks Kape's price is too high given his low output and that Zhumagulov's volume could cause problems. Cody says he can't recommend betting Kape at -250.

"yep i agree with you on all fronts there"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Dec 2, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Daniel Levi picks Manel Kape to knock out Zhalgas Zhumagulov. He believes Kape has ridiculous speed, movement, and punching power, and that Zhumagulov is small for the weight class and can be bullied. He notes that Zhumagulov is always on the back foot and that Kape can eat his best shots. He thinks Kape will finish him, possibly after working for it.

knockout
"I'm gonna go with manila cape to knock him out"
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Dec 1, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Zhalgas Zhumagulov

Jacob picks Zhalgas, placing a plus 3.5 round bet at -110. He notes Zhalgas is intelligent and will time takedowns, and Manel is overconfident and has decision losses. Jacob thinks Zhalgas will find a way to win, possibly by stealing rounds.

Plus 3.5 round bet on Zhalgas at -110
"i have a three and a half bet on him um you know if kate finds a way to uh you know pull out another win then maybe i'll i'll jump on his bandwagon"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Dec 3, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Manel Kape

I lean Kape. He is the more talented striker with power and speed, but his output is a concern. Zhumagulov keeps a decent pace and is durable. I think Kape's power will be the difference, but the fight is likely to go the distance. I like the fight goes to decision prop at minus 165 and Kape by decision at plus 130.

Kape by decision +130, fight goes to decision -165
"i am leaning on the cop side here i'm not paying minus 260 at this point in time because again it could be a very very close fight"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert picked Dec 1, 2021 (3 days before fight)

Paul does not make a clear pick, expressing skepticism about Kape's -250 price. He notes Kape's low output and lack of urgency, and that Zhumagulov is a high-volume fighter who could make it close. Paul thinks the line is too high and that Kape might not finish, making it a risky bet.

"for minus 250 this is a walk in the park i don't necessarily think it's a walk in the park knocking out zogus good luck body good luck so you're gonna have to fight him for 15 minutes"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Dec 4, 2021 (fight day)
Manel Kape

The MMA Guru picks Manel Kape to win by third-round TKO via knee. He expects a slow first round with clinch work, then Kape's leg kicks and body knees will take effect. In the third, Zhumagulov will be compromised, and Kape will land a fight-ending knee in the clinch, similar to his fight against Matias Nicolau.

third round tko
"i'm going to go manila cap third round tko that's what i'm going to do"
Bruno Silva - Fight History
SCHED vs Édgar Cháirez
13
138 MMA Expert Confident picked May 30, 2026 (7 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

The host picks Bruno Silva, noting that Silva is better on the mat and can counter while moving forward on the feet. He believes Silva's opportunistic takedowns and slick transitions will give him the edge. He also mentions that Silva does not accept bottom position and is quick to attack submissions.

"I'm taking Bruno Silva."
AJ
AJ DeVito Expert Confident picked Jun 1, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

AJ picks Bruno Silva due to his well-rounded game, strong wrestling, and experience against elite competition. He views Cháirez as having questionable fight IQ and less proven wins. AJ expects Silva to outwork Cháirez over three rounds, possibly winning a decision, and notes Silva's toughness and activity as green flags.

over 2.5 rounds minus 130; Silva by decision
"I got Bruno Silva to win. I'm not doubting Bruno Silva in this spot. I think Bruno Silva is more crafty than Edgar Shyz."
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked May 31, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Angelo picks Bruno Silva, citing his power and output advantage. He believes Silva will be the one moving forward and dictating pace, making Cháirez uncomfortable. He notes that when pressured, Cháirez tends to back up and doesn't fight as comfortably, and may get taken down where he throws up random submissions.

"I am going to pick Bruno because I think he has the power and the output advantage."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jun 3, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Édgar Cháirez

Big Brady picks Édgar Cháirez to win by third round knockout. He thinks the market is low on Cháirez after a poor performance in Mexico City, but expects Cháirez to return to his aggressive style. He notes that Bruno Silva is older and has been finished multiple times, and that Cháirez has a good chance to land a big shot late.

by third round knockout
"I'm going to take Edgar Charz here to win. And I think he's going to hopefully, you know, show up this time."
BU
Bum MMA Expert Confident picked May 30, 2026 (7 days before fight)
Édgar Cháirez

Édgar Cháirez is the underdog but has power and range with head kicks and jabs. Bruno Silva is past his prime and likely won't take the fight to the ground. Cháirez will win by decision, using his reach advantage and boxing, as Silva's recent performances have been poor.

decision win; underdog pick
"Give me Edgar Shyz by decision."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Jun 3, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Édgar Cháirez

Cody picks Cháirez as a slight underdog, noting it's a 50/50 fight. He cites Cháirez's youth, reach advantage, and better gas tank. Silva is older and may slow down. He prefers the plus money on Cháirez.

"I'm actually going to take Charz. I'm gonna pick Silva, but not very confidently."
FI
Fight Night Picks Expert Confident picked May 31, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Bruno Silva is picked because he has faster hands, more power, and better wrestling than Édgar Cháirez. Cháirez struggled against Felipe Bunes and has a tendency to pull guard and sit in his guard. Silva's aggressive pressure and ground and pound should overwhelm Cháirez. The host expects a decision win, as both are durable.

Bruno Silva wins by decision; agrees with -135 line
"I am going with Bruno Silva in this matchup. ... I think Bruno Silva is going to be the aggressor."
GR
Greedo Plays MMA Expert Confident picked May 30, 2026 (7 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Silva has more pathways to victory with his grappling and wrestling advantage. Chavez has been taken down by lesser wrestlers. Silva should bank the first round with takedowns and win a decision.

"I'm going to go Bruno Silva to win this one by decision."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Lean picked May 30, 2026 (7 days before fight)
Édgar Cháirez

Lucrative James picks Édgar Cháirez, citing Bruno Silva's age (36) and recent decline at flyweight, where fighters peak young. He notes Cháirez's finishing ability, having hurt top fighters like Joshua Van and Tatsuro Taira, and Silva's increased vulnerability. He predicts Cháirez will hurt Silva on the feet and secure a submission, possibly a guillotine or rear-naked choke.

Édgar Cháirez via submission
"I'll pick Egaris in this fight. I'll pick him to win the fight via submission."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jun 1, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Silva's pressure, calf kicks, and boxing combinations should overwhelm Cháirez, who lacks one-punch knockout power. Silva dictates the pace and avoids submission threats, grinding out a decision. The -135 line is acceptable.

Silva by decision
"I think Silva is going to continuously move forward. I think he's going to chop away at the lead leg of Chyz."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Hesitant picked Jun 3, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Paul picks Silva but is hesitant, noting both fighters are durable and the fight likely goes to decision. He prefers the over 2.5 rounds prop as the best bet. He admits Silva is a fan pick.

Over 2.5 rounds at -127
"over two and a half. I think that's the best bet on this fight."
LOSS vs Charles Johnson
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Vallejos · Mar 14, 2026
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Charles Johnson 0 85 of 162 52% 110 of 189 0 of 6 0% 0 0 0:06
Bruno Silva 0 73 of 136 53% 101 of 171 0 of 8 0% 0 0 3:43
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Charles Johnson 0 18 of 34 52% 18 of 36 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Bruno Silva 0 12 of 19 63% 15 of 22 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:53
2 Charles Johnson 0 33 of 60 55% 38 of 65 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Bruno Silva 0 27 of 53 50% 37 of 66 0 of 3 0% 0 0 1:21
3 Charles Johnson 0 34 of 68 50% 54 of 88 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:06
Bruno Silva 0 34 of 64 53% 49 of 83 0 of 3 0% 0 0 1:29
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Charles Johnson 85 of 162 52% 43 of 101 30 of 46 12 of 15 61 of 132 24 of 30 0 of 0
Bruno Silva 73 of 136 53% 52 of 106 14 of 21 7 of 9 71 of 131 2 of 5 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Charles Johnson 18 of 34 52% 7 of 18 7 of 10 4 of 6 11 of 26 7 of 8 0 of 0
Bruno Silva 12 of 19 63% 6 of 11 2 of 4 4 of 4 12 of 19 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Charles Johnson 33 of 60 55% 17 of 37 10 of 16 6 of 7 29 of 56 4 of 4 0 of 0
Bruno Silva 27 of 53 50% 18 of 39 6 of 9 3 of 5 27 of 52 0 of 1 0 of 0
3 Charles Johnson 34 of 68 50% 19 of 46 13 of 20 2 of 2 21 of 50 13 of 18 0 of 0
Bruno Silva 34 of 64 53% 28 of 56 6 of 8 0 of 0 32 of 60 2 of 4 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Charles Johnson vs. Bruno Silva
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Johnson (-200); Silva (+170)

Round 1
Keith Peterson is the referee. Silva with an inside low kick early. Johnson shoots behind a punch. Silva defends and they’re in the clinch. Johnson lands a hook on the break. Johnson fakes a shot behind a left. Johnson with a front kick. The American shoots from long distance and Silva defends easily. Silva shoves his foe into the fence. Silva backs off. A right lands for Johnson, who follows with a leg kick. A sharp right connects for the Brazilian. Silva kicks the body. Johnson appears to be bothered by the pressure. Silva clinches again and locks his hands. Johnson lands an elbow in close quaters and Silva backs off. Silva lands in an exchange. They trade low kicks. Silva with a right as Johnson moves forward. Johnson partially lands a high kick. Johnson mixes in a low kick and a front kick. Silva answers by kicking the body. Silva keeps the pressure on late in the round.

Sherdog Scores
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Johnson
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Johnson
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Johnson

Round 2
Johnson kicks the body and they trade in the pocket. Silva blocks a head kick. Silva is pressuring and Johnson is forced to defend a takedown. Johnson lands a knee and shoves his foe away. A jab lands for Johnson before Silva shoots. Johnson denies the takedown and the flyweights clinch against the fence. Silva backs off and Johnson lands a combination. A kick by Silva lands below the belt and time is called. Johnson is ready to go right away. They trade low kicks. Silva again looks for the takedown, shoving Johnson into the fence. Johnson lands a knee before they separate. Johson lands a kick and Silva counters. A straight left gets through for Johnson. Silva clinches behind an uppercut and they break quickly. Johnson fires a high kcik, but it doesn’t land clean. Another uppercut for Silva, who clinches with his opponent again. Johnson lands a short elbow in close. Silva lands a combination against the fence. A body kick lands for Johnson. The flyweights clash heads in the clinch and Johnson seemed to get the worst of it. Time is called. Silva fires a front kick and it lands low. It’s the second low blow of the round, and Johnson is in more pain than he was from the first foul. No point is taken, however. Johnson grabs a leg but lets it go. Silva with a body kick before the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Johnson
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Johnson
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Johnson

Round 3
Johnson catches a kick and lets the leg go. Johnson lands a left and they clinch. Inside leg kick for Johnson, and they clinch in the center of the cage. Silva shoves Johnson into the fence. Silva drops low in pursuit of the takedown, but Johnson defends well. Jonson jabs and they trae in close quarters. Both men land before the flyweights clinch. They battle for position before separating. This time Johnson initiates the clinch. Silva lands a combination at range and he’s pressuring Johnson, who is in defense mode. Silva ties up with his opponent against the cage. Johnson denies a takedown attempt. Johnson with a high kick on the break. Silva tries a spinning back elbow. Johnson with kicks and a right hand in hopes of creating space. Silva closes the distance again, shoving Johnson into the fence. He briefly gets the American down, but he’s up in short order. Silva moves in and lands an uppercut before clinching. They battle it out in the clinch, and Johnson lands a nice knee. Silva moves forward and goes back to the uppercut. Jonson responds with a slashing elbow. Silva keeps moving forward. but Johnson is landing plenty of offense. Both men are slugging it out in the waning moments of the fight. Johnson is finding the mark quite often. Another elbow lands for Johnson. They trade right up until the final horn, with Silva getting in a few more shots.

Sherdog Scores
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Johnson (30-27 Johnson)
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Johnson (30-27 Johnson)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Johnson (30-27 Johnson)

The Official Result
Charles Johnson def. Bruno Silva via Split Decision (28-29, 29-28, 30-27) R3 5:00
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Mar 8, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Charles Johnson

Angelo picks Charles Johnson but admits nervousness due to Bruno Silva's one-punch knockout power. He notes Johnson's excellent footwork, hand speed, and cardio, and believes if Johnson gets going early, he can avoid the big shot and win a decision. He acknowledges Johnson has been knocked out before but thinks his high IQ will prevail.

"Charles Johnson is going to be the pick. I'm a little nervous."
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Mar 9, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Charles Johnson

Big Brady picks Charles Johnson to win by third-round knockout, but expresses wariness due to Johnson's recent knockout loss and chin concerns. He likes the stylistic matchup, noting Silva's front-loaded power and tendency to fade, but worries Johnson might get knocked out early. He calls Johnson inconsistent.

"give me Charles Johnson to win this fight by third round knockout."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Mar 11, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Cody picks Bruno Silva as a dog, citing his wrestling, power, and durability. He notes Johnson's takedown defense issues and recent knockout loss. He thinks Silva can win by decision or submission.

"Bruno Silva's could be primed to pull off an upset here for sure."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Mar 13, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Charles Johnson

Connor also picks Charles Johnson, emphasizing that Bruno Silva lacks the ability to adjust strategically, while Johnson can figure out his opponent as the fight progresses. He notes that Silva's wins come from opponents making the same mistakes, which Johnson does not do. Connor sees Johnson's adaptability as the key factor.

Silva opened at +145, currently +160; Johnson opened at -170, currently -185
"I think the, the, I'm going to go with Johnson as well. It's, it's really unclear to me, honestly. Like I, I, I think either guy could go out, but it's essentially like ever present danger from Bruno Silva versus …"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Hesitant picked Mar 8, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Charles Johnson

James picks Charles Johnson to win by decision, but expresses concern about Johnson's quick return after a knockout loss. He notes Johnson's superior cardio, volume, and tools, but worries about his durability and potential recklessness. He believes Johnson is the better fighter overall but is uncertain how he will approach the fight.

"I definitely going to pick Charles Johnson here."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 10, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Charles Johnson

The host picks Johnson to win by decision, expecting him to outclass Silva on the feet. He highlights Johnson's reach advantage, defensive grappling, and ability to get back to his feet quickly. He believes Johnson's striking will be too much for Silva, and that Silva's power and grappling won't be enough to overcome Johnson's technical edge.

"I think Johnson should be able to stay away from that power. I think he picks Bruno Silva apart."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Mar 11, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Paul picks Bruno Silva, noting he bets him every fight. He likes his wrestling and power, and thinks he can outgrapple Johnson. He expects a close fight but Silva has value at plus money.

"I pretty much bet Bruno Silva every single fight. I don't see any reason to stop now."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 14, 2026 (fight day)
Charles Johnson

The Guru picks Charles Johnson, believing he will walk down Bruno Silva as the fight progresses. He notes Johnson's size advantage (5'9" vs 5'4") and reach, and that Silva fights in bursts and lacks consistent finishing ability. He predicts a TKO in the second round.

Prediction: second round TKO
"I'm going to go with Charles Johnson by TKO in the second round."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Mar 13, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Charles Johnson

Zane picks Charles Johnson, citing Johnson's ability to adjust and evolve during fights, unlike Bruno Silva who tends to make the same mistakes repeatedly. He notes that Silva's wins come against fighters who repeat errors, while Johnson adapts and finds solutions. Zane acknowledges Silva's danger but believes Johnson's flexibility gives him the edge.

Silva opened at +145, currently +160; Johnson opened at -170, currently -185
"I'm still going to pick Johnson. I don't think that I'm, I think Perez is always capable of pulling out performances like that in Paris is an ancient either."
Submission R3 2:15 · UFC Fight Night: de Ridder vs. Allen · Oct 18, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Bruno Silva 1 46 of 74 62% 60 of 92 5 of 9 55% 1 0 4:49
Park Hyun-sung 0 31 of 108 28% 56 of 136 1 of 4 25% 0 0 0:42
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Bruno Silva 0 20 of 33 60% 20 of 33 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:40
Park Hyun-sung 0 10 of 31 32% 15 of 37 1 of 4 25% 0 0 0:42
2 Bruno Silva 1 12 of 18 66% 26 of 36 2 of 4 50% 0 0 3:25
Park Hyun-sung 0 7 of 31 22% 27 of 53 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Bruno Silva 0 14 of 23 60% 14 of 23 2 of 4 50% 1 0 0:44
Park Hyun-sung 0 14 of 46 30% 14 of 46 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Bruno Silva 46 of 74 62% 30 of 57 14 of 14 2 of 3 44 of 72 2 of 2 0 of 0
Park Hyun-sung 31 of 108 28% 18 of 86 11 of 15 2 of 7 23 of 95 8 of 13 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Bruno Silva 20 of 33 60% 13 of 25 5 of 5 2 of 3 19 of 32 1 of 1 0 of 0
Park Hyun-sung 10 of 31 32% 5 of 20 3 of 6 2 of 5 7 of 26 3 of 5 0 of 0
2 Bruno Silva 12 of 18 66% 8 of 14 4 of 4 0 of 0 12 of 18 0 of 0 0 of 0
Park Hyun-sung 7 of 31 22% 6 of 29 1 of 1 0 of 1 6 of 29 1 of 2 0 of 0
3 Bruno Silva 14 of 23 60% 9 of 18 5 of 5 0 of 0 13 of 22 1 of 1 0 of 0
Park Hyun-sung 14 of 46 30% 7 of 37 7 of 8 0 of 1 10 of 40 4 of 6 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Hyun Sung Park vs. Bruno Silva
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Park (-250); Silva (+200)

Round 1
The good news for these two flyweights is that one of them will get back in the win column. The bad is that the losing party will be on or will continue their losing streak, and that is not a great place to be after the UFC signed more fighters from this year’s Contender Series than any other. Silva (14-7-2, 1 NC; 4-4, 1 NC UFC) has dropped two straight after registering a mighty four-fight finish streak, while South Korea’s Park (10-1, 3-1 UFC) is aiming to bounce back from his first career defeat. Referee Sal Ram draws the charge for these action-packed 125ers, who race together to bump fists.
The athletes immediately start with jabs from either side, trying to figure out how far away they need to be to engage. Silva is the aggressor, although neither man commits to much in the opening 55 seconds. The Brazilian races forward with a flurry of punches, and Park ducks them and hits a counter double to take the wind out of Silva’s sails. Park climbs on from the side, and before he can get his legs around his foe, Silva explodes up to his feet. Silva leaps forward after his opponent to score a pair of scooping uppercuts, and Park shrugs them off and drops to his knees in pursuit of a takedown. Silva sprawls and spins around to take the back.
Silva lifts Park up from behind and slams him to the floor, and Park works his way up and knees Silva in the sternum to break. Silva’s uppercut scores again, but this time Park is waiting for it with a counter overhand right. Silva sneaks in an uppercut that bloodies Park’s mouth, who smiles at him and fires back with a vengeance. Silva hops back and forth between stances, and his swiping left hand further damages Park’s lower mandible. Silva aims that punch at the same target again, and Park stands him up with a head kick. Silva pushes off and a finger scrapes the eye, and Park protests but the foul is not called. A few seconds later, Ram tells Silva to watch his fingers. Silva answers with a hacking elbow that splits a cut open on the top of Park’s hairline. Blood dribbles down his forehead, and he looks for a spinning back elbow but Silva is out of the way in time. When Silva escapes, he points at Park. They both trade short punches on the inside when clashing together, and the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Silva
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Silva
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Silva

Round 2
A high-five is shared to open things up, and Park reintroduces himself with a chopping low kick and a pair of looping hooks. When Silva fires back, Park clips him with a right on the temple. The Brazilian puts everything behind a leaping left hook, and he knocks the South Korean to the canvas. The speedster Silva leaps on top and keeps Park from standing, assuming back control and following Park’s scrambles to briefly threaten. Park spins and works his way upright, chasing Silva around the cage, whipping an elbow at his man. Both men swing for the bleachers with right hooks, and Silva gets his fist on Park’s face first and disorients him. “Bulldog” bull-rushes his man and tackles him to the mat, and he tosses aside a submission setup to establish top control.
Silva smothers to keep Park from escaping, and Park tries creative scrambles, twist and turns to get out. Silva maintains his position by securing half guard, only for Park to pull his own feet beneath himself so he can pop back up to his feet. Silva rushes right at him, bullying the South Korean to the fence and working him over with short but effective left hands. Silva lifts Park’s leg up, and Park threatens by wrapping his arms around the neck. Silva backs off, and he welcomes the opportunity for Park to swing on him because he is hitting harder and more accurately. A pair of uppercuts get Park’s attention, and Silva manages to bowl Park back over and reestablish himself on top. Silva largely holds Park down for the remainder of the round, smacking him with the occasional ground strike.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Silva
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Silva
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Silva

Round 3
Ram calls time when the round begins to bring in the doctor and check on Park’s lip that is split. He is cleared to continue without issue. The fighters come together and touch gloves, and then go right after it. Park starts to smile as he connects with quick punches, and he swings while cognizant that a level change is coming. Park shuts down a takedown shot and he cracks Silva, forcing Silva to sprint away to recover. Park marches his man down, laying into him and shutting down takedown efforts. Silva just misses with a spinning back fist, and Park is still on him giving him everything he can handle. Silva replies with an uppercut, and Park catches him with a right hand. “Bulldog” steps in with a crisp knee to the solar plexus, and he catches a kick and wrenches Park to the floor. Park turns over immediately so he can post off and stand, and Silva grabs him from behind and mat returns him. Park’s mouth hangs open after the damage he has taken in this match, and Silva wraps his hooks around the waist and threatens with a choke. Park spins all the way around the break up the submission and get to his knees, but Silva follows him every step of the way. Silva hops on to snatch up an unusual rear-naked choke without a single hook in, crouched behind his adversary squeezing the life out of him. It only takes seconds before Park frantically taps out, with the choke completely locked up and going nowhere. Silva immediately releases his grip and climbs atop the cage to perform a skillful back flip, nearly sticking the landing but not having quite enough left in the tank to keep himself upright. Instead, he backwards somersaults and has a laugh, having sprung the upset by placing Park on his first career losing streak.

The Official Result
Bruno Silva def. Hyun Sung Park R3 2:15 via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Oct 17, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Bruno Silva

Angelo picks Bruno Silva as an underdog, arguing he is tough, gritty, and dangerous everywhere. He notes Silva's recent losses were to elite strikers (Joshua Van, Manel Kape) and believes he can win a dogfight. He acknowledges Park's grappling and power but questions his resume and durability.

Underdog pick, Bruno Silva wins by dogfight
"I am actually going to pick Bruno Silva here. I think he's a good underdog."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Oct 17, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Park Hyun-sung

Big Brady notes Park is unproven against top competition but likes his youth, power, and slick grappling. He worries about Bruno Silva's age, damage taken, and questionable durability. He thinks Park will pressure and finish Silva as the fight goes on, predicting a third-round finish.

Park wins in round 3 (KO or sub)
"I'm going to side with uh Hung Park to get it done. I think he's going to kind of put it on Bruno Silva more and more as the fight goes on... give me Hong Park to win this fight. …"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Oct 15, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Cody picks Silva, citing his power and durability. He notes Park has been knocked down by lesser competition and has poor durability. Silva is a dog who fights for your dollar. Cody expects Silva to win by knockout or decision.

"Bruno Santos is one of those guys that overperforms. So, if you can get him at dog money, he's going to fight for your dollar."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Oct 17, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Bruno Silva

Connor picks Bruno Silva, highlighting Silva's dynamic counter-punching and ability to find big shots even when losing. He notes that Park has thrived on athleticism and size but lacks technical depth, and that Silva's right hand is a major threat to Park's square stance. Connor also points out that Park's only real test was against Tatsuro Taira, who dominated him, and that Silva is a much tougher step up.

Park opened -300, now -210; Silva opened +250, now +180. Connor expects the odds to tighten further.
"I'm gonna take Bruno Silva and it might just be the wrong size of the age or the wrong part of the size and age demographic where Silva can't find that kill shot."
LU
Lucrative James Expert picked Oct 14, 2025 (4 days before fight)

James is torn on this fight. He acknowledges Bruno Silva's skills but questions his durability and age (35) after two brutal knockout losses. He also notes Park's finishing ability but doubts his cardio if the fight goes long. James plans to do more tape study before making a final decision.

"I can't help but feel like Bruno Silva might pull off the upset in this fight. But that's only if these things are true. One, Hung Park isn't as good as maybe his record shows... And then two, if Bruno …"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Oct 17, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Park Hyun-sung

The host sees this as a great spot for Park to get back in the win column, utilizing his athleticism, speed, and power advantages over the veteran Bruno Silva. He expects Park to land a seminal blow in the second or third round and win by knockout.

win by knockout in round 2 or 3
"Look for Park to eventually land that seminal blow in the second or third round to win this fight by knockout."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Oct 15, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Paul picks Silva, agreeing with Cody. He notes Park's striking is not elite and his durability is questionable. Silva has fought tougher competition and has power. Paul sees value at plus 215.

"plus 215. It's dog or pass for me."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Oct 16, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

The MMA Guru picks Bruno Silva over Kyung Ho Kang Park (Park Hyun-sung). He notes Silva's dangerous striking and BJJ, and believes he won't be submitted. He thinks Park's loss to Tatsuro Taira shows he is bottom-of-the-barrel flyweight level. He predicts a hard-fought split decision win for Silva, taking him as an underdog.

underdog pick, split decision victory
"I'm going to go with Bruno Silva getting this one done. ... Bruno Silva split decision victory."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Oct 17, 2025 (1 day before fight)
Bruno Silva

Zane also picks Bruno Silva, citing Silva's underrated toughness and ability to figure out opponents who crash into him. He notes that Park has been pushed past his level of experience and has no easy answers to problems. Zane believes Silva is a lot more difficult than he gets credit for, and that Park's athleticism won't be enough.

"I'm going with Bruno Silva. I have a big soft spot for him and I still think Park is a great athlete with a ton of potential, but I think he's been pushed past the point of familiar."
LOSS vs Joshua Van
KO R3 4:01 · UFC 316: Dvalishvili vs. O'Malley 2 · Jun 07, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Bruno Silva 0 76 of 149 51% 77 of 150 1 of 6 16% 0 0 0:09
Joshua Van 3 125 of 217 57% 149 of 241 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:01
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Bruno Silva 0 22 of 40 55% 22 of 40 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Joshua Van 1 28 of 55 50% 28 of 55 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
2 Bruno Silva 0 22 of 49 44% 22 of 49 1 of 3 33% 0 0 0:09
Joshua Van 2 52 of 93 55% 76 of 117 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:55
3 Bruno Silva 0 32 of 60 53% 33 of 61 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Joshua Van 0 45 of 69 65% 45 of 69 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Bruno Silva 76 of 149 51% 37 of 101 13 of 19 26 of 29 73 of 146 3 of 3 0 of 0
Joshua Van 125 of 217 57% 108 of 196 11 of 14 6 of 7 97 of 177 4 of 5 24 of 35
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Bruno Silva 22 of 40 55% 7 of 22 2 of 4 13 of 14 22 of 40 0 of 0 0 of 0
Joshua Van 28 of 55 50% 24 of 48 2 of 4 2 of 3 26 of 52 1 of 1 1 of 2
2 Bruno Silva 22 of 49 44% 9 of 33 5 of 8 8 of 8 22 of 49 0 of 0 0 of 0
Joshua Van 52 of 93 55% 45 of 86 4 of 4 3 of 3 33 of 65 2 of 3 17 of 25
3 Bruno Silva 32 of 60 53% 21 of 46 6 of 7 5 of 7 29 of 57 3 of 3 0 of 0
Joshua Van 45 of 69 65% 39 of 62 5 of 6 1 of 1 38 of 60 1 of 1 6 of 8
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Bruno “Bulldog” Silva vs. Joshua Van
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Van (-625), Silva (+455)

Round 1
Vitor Ribeiro will oversee our last preliminary fight. Silva immediately scores a knockdown with his opening leg kick. Van pops back up. Both men are feeling each other out early. Silva scores with several inside leg kicks. Van fires back with a jab and then a straight right hand just barely misses. Silva scores again with a leg kick. Van lands a right-hand counter and then sneaks in an uppercut after Silva tries to flurry. The sharp striking of Van is really hurting Silva each time he lands. Silva tries to enter by charging forward. A straight right that is followed by a left hook floors Silva. Van is in complete control. Van lands a left hook as Silva misses with an overhand right. Silva goes back to his leg kicks, which is the only success he is having. Silva is eating jabs.

Sherdog Scores
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Van
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Van
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Van

Round 2
Van comes out aggressive to start the second round. Silva clinches with Van to slow down the pace, but can't keep control of him. Van is working his jab while avoiding the punches of Silva. Van sneaks in a jab as Silva tries to throw a hook. Silva's face is reddened, while it doesn't look like Van has taken a single punch. Silva goes back to leg kicks, which are still effective. Nice hook to the body for Silva, who tries to throw a front kick, but it misses. Van drops Silva with a straight right hand that came as Silva was rushing forward. Van scores with ground and pound, but Silva gets back to his feet and charges for a takedown. While successful, Silva can't keep Van on the ground. Van lands a right hook that wobbles Silva. Van lands a knee to Silva as his opponent was changing levels. Van is in guard and lands punches before letting Silva up as the round expires.

Sherdog Scores
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Van
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Van
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Van

Round 3
Silva uses the outside and lands a nice body kick. Van is working his jab well and then slips in a right straight. It feels as if every punch Van throws finds its mark. A nice 1-2 lands for Van, who follows it up with an uppercut. Silva is throwing back, even if he's outgunned and is showing some serious toughness. Van eats a right hand, which Silva follows with a leg kick. So far, this is Silva's best round, but he's still getting pieced up. A right hand for Van lands, bloodying the nose of Silva. A heavy jab lands for Van before landing another 1-2. Silva walks into a right hook, which stuns him. Van takes full advantage as he charges forward with uppercuts that knock Silva down, and then
Van rains down punches for the TKO victory
.

The Official Result
Joshua Van def. Bruno Silva via TKO (Punches); R3, 4:01.
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jun 1, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Joshua Van

Angelo picks Joshua Van because of his rapid improvements and clean technique. He acknowledges Bruno Silva's power and toughness but thinks Bruno is sloppy and older. He worries about Joshua's chin after the Charles Johnson KO but believes Joshua's striking will be too clean. He notes the odds are becoming unusable at 5-to-1.

"Josh is going to be the pick. The odds just continue to run away and eventually they're going to get to unusable territory, but five to one favorite."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jun 3, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Joshua Van

Big Brady picks Joshua Van but acknowledges this is his toughest test. He likes Van's volume, pressure, and pace, and thinks he will break Silva in the later rounds. He notes Silva's power and that Van has been finished before, but expects Van to overcome early adversity and knock Silva out in the third round. He cites Silva's history of being finished in the third round.

Van by KO in round 3
"I think Joshua Van's going to break Bruno Silva and I think he's going to knock him out in the third round."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jun 4, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Joshua Van

The fight may be competitive early, but Van's classic style is expected to take over as he batters Bruno Silva through the last 12.5 minutes. Van wins on the scorecards.

"I expect Van's classic style to come through as he batters Bruno Silva through the last maybe 12 and 1/2 minutes of this fight and winning this fight on the scorecards."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 4, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Joshua Van

The MMA Guru picks Joshua Van, citing his composure, distance control, and improving takedown defense. He notes Bruno Silva is underrated and has power, but Van can slow the fight down and build momentum. He predicts a unanimous decision win for Van, possibly 30-27, with a scare if Van's back is taken.

Finish prediction: decision win.
"I've got Joshua Van getting this one done."
LOSS vs Manel Kape
TKO (body kick and punches) R3 1:57 · UFC on ESPN: Covington vs. Buckley · Dec 14, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Manel Kape 1 111 of 168 66% 111 of 168 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Bruno Silva 0 57 of 112 50% 60 of 115 0 of 5 0% 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Manel Kape 0 32 of 48 66% 32 of 48 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Bruno Silva 0 19 of 34 55% 21 of 36 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
2 Manel Kape 0 39 of 66 59% 39 of 66 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Bruno Silva 0 27 of 43 62% 28 of 44 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
3 Manel Kape 1 40 of 54 74% 40 of 54 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Bruno Silva 0 11 of 35 31% 11 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Manel Kape 111 of 168 66% 71 of 127 18 of 19 22 of 22 109 of 165 2 of 2 0 of 1
Bruno Silva 57 of 112 50% 27 of 74 21 of 29 9 of 9 55 of 110 2 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Manel Kape 32 of 48 66% 21 of 37 2 of 2 9 of 9 31 of 47 1 of 1 0 of 0
Bruno Silva 19 of 34 55% 7 of 18 10 of 14 2 of 2 18 of 33 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Manel Kape 39 of 66 59% 25 of 52 5 of 5 9 of 9 38 of 65 1 of 1 0 of 0
Bruno Silva 27 of 43 62% 13 of 27 7 of 9 7 of 7 26 of 42 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Manel Kape 40 of 54 74% 25 of 38 11 of 12 4 of 4 40 of 53 0 of 0 0 of 1
Bruno Silva 11 of 35 31% 7 of 29 4 of 6 0 of 0 11 of 35 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Manel Kape vs. Bruno Silva
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Kape (-345), Silva (+275)

Round 1
Keith Peterson will referee the final flyweight fight on the UFC calendar. Kape's striking looks extremely quick. Silva throws out some kicks but eats a right hand for leaving it out. Nice leg kick by Kape, who then follows it up with punches. A big overhand right for Silva lands. A low blow hits Kape. The fight is restarted after a brief break. Silva keeps getting caught by Kape after he throws out leg kicks. Kape is the faster fighter. Kape gets kicked in the groin again. No point is taken. Kape finishes off the round in control and misses a spinning back fist.

Sherdog Scores
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Kape
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kape

Round 2
Silva charges forward, trying to get a takedown attempt, but it's unsuccessful. Kape catches Silva with a hook. Silva gets hurt with a right hook. Kape taunts him and then lands a huge right hand as well. Silva's power is just not respected by Kape. Yet another low blow as Kape goes down. Peterson finally takes a point from Silva. Kape looks reenergized. After hitting Silva with a right hook, Kape mocks him and dances as he avoids another punch. Incredible theater here and quite embarrassing for Silva, who is getting clowned up despite landing several illegal strikes. A solid right hand lands for Silva. Kape finishes the round with a solid body kick.

Sherdog Scores
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-8 Kape
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-8 Kape
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-8 Kape

Round 3
Silva comes out recklessly swinging as he knows he needs a finish. A right hand cracks Kape, but he doesn't show any signs of being hurt. Kape is continuing to piece up Silva, landing a combination of punches to the body. Silva walks backward into the fence while Kape lands hooks to the body. Silva charges forward and lands a left hook.
Kape lands a brutal body kick, and Silva turtles up. Kape continues with a flurry of punches, and Silva falls to the floor.
Peterson waves it off as Silva has no fight left in him.

The Official Result
Manel Kape def. Bruno Silva via TKO (Punches); R3, 1:57.
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Dec 8, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Angelo picks Kape as the cleaner, more technical striker with better footwork. He notes Kape's speed, explosiveness, and ability to bounce in and out of range, while Silva is a tough bruiser who is good everywhere but not technical. He expects Kape to win by decision due to Silva's toughness, and sees value in Kape's odds.

Likely decision win; sees value in odds.
"Bruno Silva is good but Manel cop is better it's literally that simple... cop wins this fight likely a decision because of the toughness on the other side and I think there's still some value in his odds."
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Big Brady picks Manel Kape to win by second-round knockout, but is hesitant due to Kape's inconsistency. He notes Kape has looked like a star in some fights but has also had terrible performances where he did nothing. He thinks Kape has a major skill advantage and should finish Silva, but is not sure he will show up.

"I'll go Manel cop I'll take him to win this fight by second round knockout I think he has a major skill Advantage here but the problem with cop is I don't think he always um utilizes all his skills"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Cody picks Bruno Silva as a live underdog, citing Manel Kape's history of tentative performances and poor output. He notes Silva's power, durability, and recent knockout wins, and believes Silva's willingness to push the pace will expose Kape's tendency to sit back. Cody also mentions Silva's training at Fight Ready with high-level partners.

"I actually got Bruno Silva yeah partly because this is a crazy number and one it's a flya away fight but that aside it's like Bruno Silva is one of these guys that's going to give you full effort."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Connor picks Kape, acknowledging Silva's toughness and well-roundedness but noting that Kape's athleticism and speed are superior. He thinks Silva's best chance is to pressure, but that plays into Kape's counterpunching. Connor expects a slow fight where Kape eventually lands a big shot.

Kape opened at -254, now -357; Silva opened at +219, now +293
"I would, if I had to guess, I think we'd see a bit of both. Slow burn. Silva gets touched a little more, gets frustrated, comes out really hot, trying to get some momentum back and gets nuked."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Daniel Vreeland picks Manel Kape to win by knockout, citing Kape's fast hands and explosiveness. He notes that Bruno Silva is tough and will stand and trade, which plays into Kape's strengths. Vreeland believes Kape can hurt Silva more than Cody Durman did, and that a finish is likely. He mentions Kape's past issues with overconfidence but thinks he will perform well here.

by KO
"I'm gonna go manell cap to come out here knock out Bruno Bulldog Silva and earn a title shot"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Lucrative James picks Manel Kape to win, citing Kape's accuracy, athleticism, and durability. He acknowledges Bruno Silva's power and grappling upside, but believes Kape's sharpshooting and ability to land heavy blows will prevail. He notes Silva's recent poor performance against Cody Durden and Kape's overall skill advantage, though he admits Silva has value as an underdog.

"I think Manel cape's going to win I just think he's too much of a sharp shooter I think he's too accurate I think he's too athletic I think he hits too hard."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Kape's explosiveness, power, and speed will be too much for Bruno Silva. He will land the more damaging strikes, which could lead to a finish, but the prediction is for Kape to win on the scorecards.

wins by decision
"I believe the explosiveness power and speed of cop will end up being too much for Bruno here I look for a cap to land the more damaging and significant strikes which could lead to a finish But ultimately my …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Paul leans towards Bruno Silva, agreeing with Cody that the price is too high on Kape. He notes Kape's inconsistency and Silva's power and durability. Paul sees this as a dogger pass situation and is willing to take the plus money on Silva.

"I think it's another dogger pass type of situation I just don't really know how invested I want to be in Bruno Silva this week."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Manel Kape

The MMA Guru picks Manel Kape, acknowledging Bruno Silva's underrated skills and finishing ability but believing Kape's takedown defense and durability are underrated. He notes that Kape has never been finished and has gone the distance with champions like Pantoja. He predicts Kape will win by TKO or decision, possibly with a flying knee. He dismisses Silva's wins as against lower-level competition.

flying knee TKO possibility
"I'm going to go with Manel cap regardless and I'm going to say he gets this one done by TKO maybe a decision where he hurts Bruno Silva on a few occasions though instead"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Zane picks Kape despite his low-output style, because Kape's speed and explosiveness are too much for Silva. He notes that Silva is a counterpuncher who may struggle to time Kape's sporadic attacks, and that if Silva pressures, he risks getting countered. Zane thinks Silva will eventually get frustrated and get 'nuked'.

Kape opened at -254, now -357; Silva opened at +219, now +293
"I think it might be close, but it just hard, very hard to see burn herself actually winning. Isn't it?"
WIN vs Cody Durden
TKO (punches) R2 2:58 · UFC on ESPN: Lemos vs. Jandiroba · Jul 20, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Bruno Silva 0 28 of 63 44% 31 of 68 1 of 1 100% 3 0 2:35
Cody Durden 1 42 of 73 57% 45 of 77 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:23
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Bruno Silva 0 24 of 57 42% 25 of 58 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:12
Cody Durden 0 22 of 47 46% 23 of 48 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:12
2 Bruno Silva 0 4 of 6 66% 6 of 10 1 of 1 100% 3 0 2:23
Cody Durden 1 20 of 26 76% 22 of 29 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:11
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Bruno Silva 28 of 63 44% 20 of 52 5 of 7 3 of 4 27 of 62 1 of 1 0 of 0
Cody Durden 42 of 73 57% 31 of 57 6 of 10 5 of 6 24 of 51 1 of 1 17 of 21
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Bruno Silva 24 of 57 42% 16 of 46 5 of 7 3 of 4 24 of 57 0 of 0 0 of 0
Cody Durden 22 of 47 46% 13 of 33 5 of 9 4 of 5 21 of 46 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Bruno Silva 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0 3 of 5 1 of 1 0 of 0
Cody Durden 20 of 26 76% 18 of 24 1 of 1 1 of 1 3 of 5 0 of 0 17 of 21
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Cody Durden vs. Bruno Silva
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Durden (-122), Silva (+102)

Round 1
In the only other fight on the billing beyond the main event with UFC-ranked fighter, top-15 Durden (16-5-1, 5-3-1 UFC) would like nothing more than to put a rough face crank submission loss in December behind him. He will meet fellow grappler Silva (13-5-2, 1 NC; 3-2, 1 NC UFC) in the center of the cage, in what could be an interesting clash of styles on the mat. Referee Chris Tognoni is ready whether it lasts three minutes or all three rounds, and he commences the match as the 125ers bump fists. Durden is quick to lash out with a body kick, and he walks Silva down and marks Silva’s left eye up early with punches. Durden changes levels, and the two bonk heads as Tognoni tells them to be careful. Durden keeps chasing after his opponent, and Silva pushes him away and lands a sweeping leg kick. Silva races forward to tie the American up, and he lands a knee to the guts while Durden looks to trip Silva up. Durden scores a right at the break, and chases to land another long right hand before Silva can zip away. Silva pushes off with the ball of his foot, and he jabs the body and avoids a front kick. Durden clips his opponent with three punches, and he ducks when Silva tries to spin with a back fist to counter. Durden sits down on a chopping kick, and he evades a scooping uppercut and stops a takedown effort in its tracks from the Brazilian. Durden surges forward, fighting behind his jab, and he swipes with a left hook on his way in. Durden attacks with a leg kick, and he is countered with an overhand right. Durden connects with two hooks, and he meanders forward pawing with hooks until committing to one up top and another to the body. Silva misses with another big uppercut, but his front kick does land cleanly. Durden winds up with a huge right hand that busts into Silva’s nose, reddening his cheek and nose, and he wears it well. Durden parries a body shot, swipes out with a left hand and drills Silva with a right hand. Silva cries foul, and Tognoni pauses the action and calls for a replay to confirm that Durden’s fingers grazed the eyeball. The Brazilian needs a doctor to come in and wipe away his eye, and Tognoni goes to calmly warn Durden for the accidental foul. Silva informs Tognoni that he can continue, but needs a little more time to recover—he has four more minutes, and no booing crowd to urge him to return to combat sooner than he should. Silva tells Tognoni his eye is spasming, but he can keep going, and they get back to it after two minutes of recovery. Both men rush at one hellbent for leather, and the proceed to throw it hard. Both men tag the other, and Durden is warned for outstretched fingers. Silva kicks low as blood trickles out of his nostril, and Durden turns with a back kick that plants square in the solar plexus. Durden points to his success, and the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Durden
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Durden
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Durden

Round 2
The flyweights clock in for the second round, and Silva is smiling and ready to return to action. He strikes first in the form of a leg kick, and Durden answers him with a twitchy right hand. Durden finds success with it and beans the Brazilian with two more, putting “Bulldog” on skates. Silva backs off and shoots for a takedown, and Durden catches a brabo choke. Silva turns the proper direction, and he fights off a subsequent anaconda choke. Durden tries a third time to land a similar submission, and Silva survives all three and lowers himself to his back. Silva tries to tug off the fence links to find a better angle, and Durden lays flat on top of him. Silva wall-walks to his knees, and Durden is on him and drags him back down when Silva pops up. Durden stays glued to his man, but Silva explodes back to his feet and walks Durden down.
“Bulldog” walks through a jab and drills Durden in the jaw with a ferocious uppercut, knocking his mouthpiece clean out and sending the American crashing to the canvas. Silva pounces and unloads with relentless right hands, pouring it on and drawing blood that sprays the mat as he beats Durden down. Silva continues landing as Tognoni asks for Durden to fight back, and when Durden’s arms go limp, he intervenes.
This is a crazy comeback for Silva, who turns the tables with just one punch and may have performed some unauthorized dental work on the soon-to-be-unranked contender. This sport never fails to surprise, and no fighter is ever totally safe while the cage door is locked and both competitors are still in the fight.

The Official Result
Bruno Silva def. Cody Durden R2 2:58 via TKO (Punches)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jul 14, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Cody Durden

Angelo picks Cody Durden because his aggressive wrestling pace will be too much for Bruno Silva, leading to a close decision. He notes that Silva has power and could land a knockout, but Durden's chin is a concern. He does not mention a bet, but is confident in the pick.

"I think the wrestling pace is going to be too much I think Cody squeezes out a close decision here"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Cody picks Bruno Silva, highlighting his striking advantage and the fact that he accepted the fight before Durden, indicating confidence from training together. He notes Silva's defensive wrestling is solid and that Durden will struggle to take him down. He also mentions Silva's submission win over Tyson Nam as impressive.

"I got Bruno Silva man so that's that's the pick for me on this one."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Cody Durden

Daniel Vreeland picks his friend Cody Durden, citing Durden's superior wrestling, volume, and training with Pantoja. He acknowledges Bruno's explosive power and opportunistic submissions but believes Durden will outwork him everywhere. Vreeland warns against underestimating Durden's standup and submission defense.

"I think Cody outworks this guy um and everywhere too like on the feet I think he's gonna out volume him and when he decides to mix in his takedowns as long as you know he doesn't get caught in …"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Silva is a +100 underdog. He has a slick boxing approach and BJJ black belt, and his takedown defense and ability to work back to his feet should frustrate Durden. Durden will put himself in danger with his wrestling, and Silva can capitalize with a submission or TKO. Silva's inactivity (16 months) is a concern, but his skills should be enough to get the win.

submission
"I'm going to call Bruno Silva Club in sub as I think that deran will put himself into too much danger and I think Silva is dangerous enough to eventually find that big shot and put Duran away"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Paul also picks Bruno Silva, agreeing with Cody's points about Silva's striking and the familiarity from training. He thinks Silva has an advantage on the feet and that Durden will be in trouble if he tries to grapple. He also notes the submission prop as a possibility.

"Bruno Silva is also the pick for me."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 16, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Cody Durden

The MMA Guru picks Cody Durden, trusting in his activity. He notes Bruno Silva has been inactive, fighting only once since 2021, while Durden has been consistently fighting. He highlights Durden's wins over Jake Hadley and Charles Johnson, and believes Durden is more disciplined and focused. He also mentions Durden is bigger for the division.

"I'm going to trust in the activity as I said Bruno Silva's been a little bit out of the game recently"
WIN vs Tyson Nam
Technical Submission (rear-naked choke) R2 1:23 · UFC Fight Night: Yan vs. Dvalishvili · Mar 11, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Bruno Silva 0 12 of 38 31% 12 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Tyson Nam 1 23 of 45 51% 27 of 50 0 of 1 0% 1 0 0:53
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Bruno Silva 0 12 of 35 34% 12 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Tyson Nam 0 19 of 36 52% 19 of 36 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
2 Bruno Silva 0 0 of 3 0% 0 of 3 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Tyson Nam 1 4 of 9 44% 8 of 14 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:53
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Bruno Silva 12 of 38 31% 6 of 31 3 of 4 3 of 3 12 of 38 0 of 0 0 of 0
Tyson Nam 23 of 45 51% 14 of 33 5 of 8 4 of 4 21 of 38 0 of 1 2 of 6
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Bruno Silva 12 of 35 34% 6 of 28 3 of 4 3 of 3 12 of 35 0 of 0 0 of 0
Tyson Nam 19 of 36 52% 10 of 24 5 of 8 4 of 4 19 of 35 0 of 1 0 of 0
2 Bruno Silva 0 of 3 0% 0 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
Tyson Nam 4 of 9 44% 4 of 9 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 3 0 of 0 2 of 6
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Tyson Nam vs. Bruno Silva
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Silva (-195), Nam (+165)

Round 1
Moving right along, flyweights take center stage as two of the heavier handed competitors in the division meet. Fresh off a first-round knockout last August, Nam (21-12-1, 3-3 UFC) at 39 years of age looks to prove he still has some life left, and he steps into the cage against Brazilian bulldog Silva (12-5-2, 1 NC; 2-2, 1 NC UFC). Aware that this one could end in a moment’s notice, referee Chris Tognoni is prepped and ready for what happens next. There is no thought of offering a glove touch, and instead the two want to engage. Silva introduces himself with a whipping leg kick, and Nam smiles at him as he walks him down. Nam hand-fights with his left hand outstretched, and he follows a pawing left with a straight right. Silva circles away as Nam gives chase, with Nam lining up his right hand. Silva darts forward with two hooks, doing enough to make Nam smiles again. The Brazilian fires off another nasty low kick, and his subsequent combination flusters Nam. Silva spins with a back fist that collides perfectly off the side of Nam’s head, and the elder statesman simply grins at him. Tognoni warns Nam for outstretched fingers, and Silva boots his foe in the body. Nam continues to walk Silva down, and they trade low kick for low kick. Silva slides a right hand around the guard, and Nam practically ignores it as he kicks the inside thigh in response. Silva shoots in suddenly for a takedown, and Nam tosses it aside and ducks a looping punch. When Silva aims a kick to the ribcage, Nam catches him with an overhand right. Silva backs off as the jabs from Nam aim at his face, and he connects with a clean right hand while backing away. Nam bears down on him with a short salvo of punches, and Silva is mostly out of harm’s way in time. Silva goes for a takedown to keep Nam honest when Nam backs him against the wall, but Nam keeps his forward momentum when there is nothing to the entry. Nam blocks a spinning back fist as he marches onward, and he eats a body kick when trying to throw hands. Nam gets off his own body kick and scores a few punches to follow before the close round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Silva
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Silva
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Silva

Round 2
The bantamweights meet in the middle, but it is Silva that takes a backward step when Nam comes at him faster. Nam pushes out jab after inaccurate jab, and Silva times a spectacular front kick up the middle that smashes into Nam’s jaw and sends in crashing to the canvas. Silva leaps down on top in the blink of an eye into Nam’s guard, and he pummels a dazed Nam with ground strikes.
As Nam looks to escape and get his bearings, Silva slithers around to take the back as Nam is standing up. “Bulldog” snatches up a rear-naked choke without even getting a hook in, and Nam falls to the mat as Silva secures the back take. Silva gets his hooks in, and he crushes with his grip while Nam tries and fails to fight the hands and break the grip. As he is attempting to free himself from the submission, Nam goes out,
and Tognoni recognizes this and calls a halt to the match immediately. This is a big win for Silva, who may find himself with a number next to his name next week as he becomes the first man to submit the well-traveled Nam.

The Official Result
Bruno Silva def. Tyson Nam R2 1:23 via Technical Submission (Rear-Naked Choke)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Mar 5, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Angelo leans toward Bruno Silva because he has more ways to win, being well-rounded with power, wrestling, and submissions. He acknowledges Tyson Nam's one-punch knockout power but prefers the versatility. He suggests the best bet might be Tyson Nam inside the distance (decision no action) due to Nam's toughness and Silva's potential rust from a two-year layoff.

Tyson Nam inside the distance (decision no action) bet suggestion
"I'm gonna lean Bruno because he has more ways to win this fight and I can't be picking people just praying for a one punch knockout so Bruno's gonna be the pick"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Mar 8, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Big Brady picks Bruno Silva because he believes Silva will be the more active striker and has a clear grappling advantage. He notes that Tyson Nam relies on landing a big shot and doesn't grapple, and at 39 years old it's hard to favor him. Brady expects Silva to mix in takedowns and win by decision, as Nam's 100% takedown defense hasn't been tested by grapplers.

win by decision
"I think Silva does get the fight down to the mat mixing on the takedowns um being higher output on the feed and ultimately coming away with the decision here"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Mar 8, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Cody picks Silva but is hesitant due to the two-year layoff. He acknowledges Silva's momentum before the layoff and his training, but notes ring rust concerns. He prefers a prop on Nam by KO if the price is right.

considering Tyson Nam by KO if plus 400
"I'll pick a dog to open the show but um don't love it may not even yeah probably won't even bet it"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Lean picked Mar 9, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Tyson Nam

Connor picks Nam, favoring his pressure and counter-striking style. He notes that Nam is comfortable in the pocket and accurate with his right hand, while Silva tends to become frantic under pressure and may give Nam the openings he wants. He acknowledges Silva's toughness and tricky entries but thinks Nam's experience and timing will prevail.

Silva opened +130, now -196; Nam opened -150, now +162. Connor is surprised Silva is such a heavy favorite.
"I'll favor nam just because I think he is very comfortable in those in that kind of fight like getting lots of opportunities to counter while getting to pressure."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 6, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

I think Silva's improvements in combination striking and his ability to take the fight to the ground will be key. He can avoid Nam's power by dragging him to the mat and controlling the fight there. Nam's decision-making is poor when he can't knock opponents out. Silva should win by decision, but be cautious of Nam's knockout power.

Silva by decision
"I'm gonna go Bruno bulldog logs over by decision"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Mar 8, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Paul picks Silva, noting his improvements and durability. He thinks Silva's wrestling and chin will be too much for Nam, who is a one-dimensional banger. He likes the -200 price relative to other favorites on the card.

"are you still taking Bruno Silva absolutely"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 7, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

The MMA Guru picks Bruno Silva over Tyson Nam, despite Nam being the popular pick. He believes Silva is technical and has improved his boxing, making him dangerous. He notes Nam is 39 and questions his ability to get another KO win. The Guru predicts Silva will win by TKO finish.

by TKO
"I'm actually gonna go with Bruno Silva by finish over Tyson Nam by TKO"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Lean picked Mar 9, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Zane picks Silva, believing his durability and power will be the difference. He notes that Silva is very hard to knock out and will create exchanges, while Nam's low output could be a problem if Silva pressures him. He thinks Silva will do a little more over three rounds, but acknowledges it's a close fight.

"I think I'm gonna pick Silva just because I think neither of these guys are gonna go to sleep all right I think he's just gonna do a little more than them."
KO (punches) R1 1:00 · UFC Fight Night: Font vs. Garbrandt · May 22, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Bruno Silva 1 6 of 12 50% 6 of 12 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Victor Rodriguez 0 0 of 3 0% 0 of 3 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Bruno Silva 1 6 of 12 50% 6 of 12 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Victor Rodriguez 0 0 of 3 0% 0 of 3 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Bruno Silva 6 of 12 50% 4 of 10 1 of 1 1 of 1 3 of 6 1 of 1 2 of 5
Victor Rodriguez 0 of 3 0% 0 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Bruno Silva 6 of 12 50% 4 of 10 1 of 1 1 of 1 3 of 6 1 of 1 2 of 5
Victor Rodriguez 0 of 3 0% 0 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 3 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Bruno Silva vs. Victor Rodriguez

Round 1
Switching gears to the flyweights once more, what happens when a man named “Bulldog” takes on a fighter that goes by “Vicious”? In this meeting, Brazil’s Silva (11-5-2, 1 NC; 1-2, 1 NC UFC) squares off against Alaska native Rodriguez (5-3, 0-1 UFC), in a battle of two fighters aiming to even their UFC records to .500. The 125-pound pairing draws oversight from referee Chris Tognoni, who cracks his neck and observes a clean glove touch right before the action begins. The flyweights come out tentative, reaching at one another with jabs from a great distance. Both men wind up with right hands, and neither find their mark as the action is largely stalled. Silva gets off a slapping leg kick, and he twirls out of the way and tags Rodriguez behind the ear with a big right hand. The Alaska native is hurt, and Silva steps in with a knee that rings Rodriguez’ bell.
“Bulldog” smells blood, and he blitzes forward with a massive overhand right that smashes into the side of Rodriguez’ head and puts him down. Rodriguez falls to his knees and may be out cold, and Tognoni rushes in to halt the contest as Silva chains together some punches that are purely academic at that point.
A one-punch knockout is rare at the flyweight division, and even more rare to take place within the first minute. That is two knockouts in just over two months for the Brazilian, who holds up a sign that says “$75K Dana” as he asks for post-fight bonus money. On his way out of the cage, Silva breakdances his way to his interview.

The Official Result
Bruno Silva def. Victor Rodriguez R1 1:00 via KO (Punches)
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked May 18, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Big Brady confidently picks Bruno Silva, calling this a massive step down in competition. He highlights Silva's well-rounded skills (striking, wrestling, BJJ) and expects a first-round submission. He notes Rodriguez has never seen a third round and has been finished by questionable opponents.

Silva by first-round submission
"i'm going to say bruno silva wins by first round submission"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked May 19, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Cody Saftic picks Bruno Silva, noting that Silva has shown improvement and is training with high-level partners. He believes Rodriguez is a low-level regional fighter who was knocked out by Adrian Yanez in his UFC debut. Saftic thinks Silva's well-rounded game and momentum will be too much for Rodriguez, and that Silva will get a finish. He acknowledges the price is high but sees value.

Silva by TKO/KO
"i think he gets the job done i'm going to agree with you the pro the light the line's probably a little bit off but there's not a whole lot that i can take away from victor rodriguez that i …"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked May 20, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Daniel Levi picks Bruno Silva, stating that Silva is better everywhere—more explosive, more comfortable—and that Victor Rodriguez comes from a weak Alaskan regional scene and does not belong in the UFC. He predicts Silva will handle Rodriguez easily, possibly by first-round knockout or submission. He advises against laying the -350 price but is confident in the win.

first round knockout or submission
"i think bruno is going to run through this guy in the first round and uh i just think victor rodriguez does not belong here at all man"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked May 19, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Matt is very confident Bruno Silva finishes Victor Rodriguez, likely in the first or second round. He highlights Silva's performance against JP Buys, where he knocked him out in the second round, and his close fight with Woolen Backoff where he showed good takedown defense. He dismisses Rodriguez's power as a threat, noting Silva has faced heavier hitters. He recommends Silva inside the distance or the under 2.5 rounds, calling it a steal.

Bruno Silva inside the distance (-115), under 2.5 rounds (-145), Bruno Silva round 1 (+250), round 2 (+400)
"i'm going bruno silva uh and i'm going with him by finish probably first or second round"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Hesitant picked May 19, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Paul Shaughnessy picks Bruno Silva but is hesitant due to the price. He notes that Silva looked good against JP Buys but that Buys is not UFC caliber. He questions whether Silva's improvements are real and whether he can handle a step up. However, he acknowledges that Rodriguez's competition level is very low and that Silva should win. He suggests passing on the moneyline.

"-340 bruno silva sounds pretty scary to me what's your take"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 22, 2021 (fight day)
Bruno Silva

The MMA Guru predicts Bruno Silva will win by second-round TKO. He notes Silva's improving pacing and cardio, and expects Rodriguez to have range at flyweight but Silva will make it messy. The finish will come via a counter hook over the top after slipping Rodriguez's jab.

"i think bruno silva's improving at this point in his career and i think he's actually gonna get a second round tko"
Expert Picks (10)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Dec 8, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Angelo picks Kape as the cleaner, more technical striker with better footwork. He notes Kape's speed, explosiveness, and ability to bounce in and out of range, while Silva is a tough bruiser who is good everywhere but not technical. He expects Kape to win by decision due to Silva's toughness, and sees value in Kape's odds.

Likely decision win; sees value in odds.
"Bruno Silva is good but Manel cop is better it's literally that simple... cop wins this fight likely a decision because of the toughness on the other side and I think there's still some value in his odds."
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Big Brady picks Manel Kape to win by second-round knockout, but is hesitant due to Kape's inconsistency. He notes Kape has looked like a star in some fights but has also had terrible performances where he did nothing. He thinks Kape has a major skill advantage and should finish Silva, but is not sure he will show up.

"I'll go Manel cop I'll take him to win this fight by second round knockout I think he has a major skill Advantage here but the problem with cop is I don't think he always um utilizes all his skills"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Cody picks Bruno Silva as a live underdog, citing Manel Kape's history of tentative performances and poor output. He notes Silva's power, durability, and recent knockout wins, and believes Silva's willingness to push the pace will expose Kape's tendency to sit back. Cody also mentions Silva's training at Fight Ready with high-level partners.

"I actually got Bruno Silva yeah partly because this is a crazy number and one it's a flya away fight but that aside it's like Bruno Silva is one of these guys that's going to give you full effort."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Connor picks Kape, acknowledging Silva's toughness and well-roundedness but noting that Kape's athleticism and speed are superior. He thinks Silva's best chance is to pressure, but that plays into Kape's counterpunching. Connor expects a slow fight where Kape eventually lands a big shot.

Kape opened at -254, now -357; Silva opened at +219, now +293
"I would, if I had to guess, I think we'd see a bit of both. Slow burn. Silva gets touched a little more, gets frustrated, comes out really hot, trying to get some momentum back and gets nuked."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Daniel Vreeland picks Manel Kape to win by knockout, citing Kape's fast hands and explosiveness. He notes that Bruno Silva is tough and will stand and trade, which plays into Kape's strengths. Vreeland believes Kape can hurt Silva more than Cody Durman did, and that a finish is likely. He mentions Kape's past issues with overconfidence but thinks he will perform well here.

by KO
"I'm gonna go manell cap to come out here knock out Bruno Bulldog Silva and earn a title shot"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Lucrative James picks Manel Kape to win, citing Kape's accuracy, athleticism, and durability. He acknowledges Bruno Silva's power and grappling upside, but believes Kape's sharpshooting and ability to land heavy blows will prevail. He notes Silva's recent poor performance against Cody Durden and Kape's overall skill advantage, though he admits Silva has value as an underdog.

"I think Manel cape's going to win I just think he's too much of a sharp shooter I think he's too accurate I think he's too athletic I think he hits too hard."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Kape's explosiveness, power, and speed will be too much for Bruno Silva. He will land the more damaging strikes, which could lead to a finish, but the prediction is for Kape to win on the scorecards.

wins by decision
"I believe the explosiveness power and speed of cop will end up being too much for Bruno here I look for a cap to land the more damaging and significant strikes which could lead to a finish But ultimately my prediction is going to be cop to win this fight …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Bruno Silva

Paul leans towards Bruno Silva, agreeing with Cody that the price is too high on Kape. He notes Kape's inconsistency and Silva's power and durability. Paul sees this as a dogger pass situation and is willing to take the plus money on Silva.

"I think it's another dogger pass type of situation I just don't really know how invested I want to be in Bruno Silva this week."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Dec 11, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Manel Kape

The MMA Guru picks Manel Kape, acknowledging Bruno Silva's underrated skills and finishing ability but believing Kape's takedown defense and durability are underrated. He notes that Kape has never been finished and has gone the distance with champions like Pantoja. He predicts Kape will win by TKO or decision, possibly with a flying knee. He dismisses Silva's wins as against lower-level competition.

flying knee TKO possibility
"I'm going to go with Manel cap regardless and I'm going to say he gets this one done by TKO maybe a decision where he hurts Bruno Silva on a few occasions though instead"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Dec 12, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Manel Kape

Zane picks Kape despite his low-output style, because Kape's speed and explosiveness are too much for Silva. He notes that Silva is a counterpuncher who may struggle to time Kape's sporadic attacks, and that if Silva pressures, he risks getting countered. Zane thinks Silva will eventually get frustrated and get 'nuked'.

Kape opened at -254, now -357; Silva opened at +219, now +293
"I think it might be close, but it just hard, very hard to see burn herself actually winning. Isn't it?"