The nonstop back-and-forth on social media between Manel Kape and reigning UFC flyweight titleholder Joshua Van has resumed.

Van recently proved to the world that he did not win the 125-pound strap by accident last year at UFC 323 when Alexandre Pantoja suffered a freak arm injury. Last month at UFC 331, Van and Pantoja ran it back, and this time “The Fearless” showcased superior striking, flawless cardio, and takedown defense against Pantoja, en route to a unanimous decision win.

[Images via UFC on X]

After registering 2 successful title defenses already in 2026, Van is expected to meet top contender Manel Kape next. Kape is riding a four-fight win streak and has knocked out all his past four opponents. He now wants to send Van to the shadow realm and dethrone the 24-year-old Myanmar fighter. Earlier today on X, “Starboy” sent a chilling warning to Van. He quipped:

“I only need one clean shot, and your face won’t match your passport anymore. #disfigured”

Check out Manel Kape’s comments below:

Van, meanwhile, is game to lock horns with Kape next. Yesterday on X, while taking a light-hearted jab at the 32-year-old and calling him out, Van quipped:

“Yo fat fu*k Start cutting now cuz u better make weight !! We don’t want another weight excuse. Let’s give the people wht they want!!! #tittyboi”

Check out Joshua Van’s comments below:

A former UFC flyweight champion Also believes he can knock out Joshua Van

Former two-time UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo, who now fights in the bantamweight division, believes if the UFC allows him to move down and fight Joshua Van, he can knock out “The Fearless.” On UFC 332 media day, the Brazilian told MMA Fighting that he can easily make 125 pounds and has been asking the UFC brass for a chance to face Van, before adding:

“Let’s see if his boxing is as good as mine. … If the UFC gives me the opportunity, I would knock him out.”

Check out Deiveson Figueiredo’s comments about Joshua Van below:

Subham

Subham is a writer and editor with experience spanning MMA, Health & Fitness, true crime, and pop culture. He has previously worked with Sportskeeda MMA, SK True Crime, and SK Pop, Movies, and Shows.
He currently covers the UFC for LowKickMMA and MMA Pros Picks.