Manel Kape is a fast-rising star in the UFC flyweight division, known for his explosive striking and entertaining fight style. As he prepares for one of the biggest bouts of his career against Brandon Royval, fans across the globe are eager to learn more about his background, beliefs, and fight outlook.
Country & Nationality
Born Manuel Pedro Gomes on November 14, 1993, in Luanda, Angola, Kape has deep roots in both Africa and Europe. Though he was born in Angola, his family later moved to Portugal, where he grew up and developed his martial arts career. This dual identity makes him one of the most unique personalities in the UFC — proudly representing both Angolan and Portuguese heritage in the global MMA scene.
Today, Kape lives and trains in Las Vegas, Nevada, while also spending time with international camps such as AKA Thailand and Xtreme Couture.
Religion & Personal Journey
Originally raised as a Christian, Manel Kape made headlines when he converted to Islam in January 2024. This spiritual shift was publicly shared by his management team, and he has since been known to practice Islam and use the name Musa Masha’Allah in some circles. While Kape himself hasn’t fully detailed every reason behind his religious transition, reports highlight the influence of his training environment and close ties with Muslim fighters and coaches as significant factors in his journey.
This spiritual aspect adds a deeper dimension to his public profile, strengthening his identity both inside and outside the Octagon.
Career Highlights & Wiki-Style Bio
Full Name: Manuel Pedro Gomes
Nickname: “Starboy”
Birthdate: November 14, 1993
Birthplace: Luanda, Angola
Nationality: Angolan & Portuguese
Division: UFC Flyweight (125 lbs)
Team: Xtreme Couture / AKA Thailand
Professional MMA Debut: 2012
Pro Record: 21–7 (as of late 2025)
Fighting Style: Striking-heavy MMA with knockout power
Kape began boxing at just 4 years old under the guidance of his boxing-champion father and transitioned to MMA at age 13. After competing around Europe and in Japan’s Rizin Fighting Federation — where he won the Rizin Bantamweight Championship — he signed with the UFC in 2020 as the first Angolan-Portuguese fighter in the promotion.
Since joining the UFC, Kape has gained a reputation for knockouts and high-octane striking, earning multiple Performance of the Night bonuses and climbing into the top ranks of the competitive flyweight division.
Vs Brandon Royval: Prediction & Fight Breakdown
The matchup Brandon Royval vs. Manel Kape is scheduled to headline UFC on ESPN 73 / UFC Vegas 112 on December 13, 2025 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas — marking one of the most anticipated flyweight clashes of the year.
Brandon Royval, a seasoned flyweight contender and dynamic grappler-striker with multiple Fight of the Night honors, complements Kape’s aggressive striking with relentless pace and scrambles.
Here’s how predictions are shaping up:
Statistical Forecast: Some analytical models show a slight edge for Royval, predicting around a 55% chance of winning based on recent form and fight metrics.
Key Fight Variables:
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Kape’s strengths: Powerful knockout ability, top-tier striking defense, and high finishing rate.
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Royval’s assets: Wrestling versatility, cardio for deep rounds, and experience grinding out decisions.
Expert Takes: MMA analysts believe the result will hinge on pace control and where the fight is won — a striking battle favors Kape, while extended scrambles lean toward Royval.
Prediction Summary:
Kape by late-round finish or decision if he controls distance.
Royval if he neutralizes strikes and imposes grappling pressure.
This fight is a true stylistic chess match that could impact both fighters’ paths toward title contention.
Conclusion
Manel Kape combines international heritage, personal transformation, and elite fighting skill to stand as one of MMA’s most fascinating figures. From his Angolan-Portuguese roots to his religious journey and high-stakes fight with Brandon Royval, Kape’s story resonates with fans across continents. As the 2025 flyweight main event approaches, expectations remain high for a thrilling display of technique, power, and heart inside the Octagon.
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