Muhammad Mokaev (right)(image via UFC/YouTube)

By FCF Staff

Muhammad Mokaev and Manel Kape will battle in a pivotal, flyweight fight this summer, which could determine who will challenge Alexandre Pantoja next.

Recently, Mokaev announced via social media that he will face Kape at the UFC’s upcoming card in Manchester, England. UFC 304 will take place in the historic city on July 27th.

July 27th another victory InshaAllah ☝ pic.twitter.com/4xn444PwuT

— Muhammad Mokaev (@muhammadmokaev) May 8, 2024

Home of Fight was reportedly the first outlet to report the match-up, and MMA Fighting also confirmed the fight with sources.

The 23-year-old Mokaev (12-0) has gone 6-0 to date in the Octagon, and the Manchester resident is coming off a decision win over Alex Perez in March.

Kape (19-6) hasn’t competed since September, when he recorded a decision win over Felipe dos Santos. The 30-year-old has won four straight fights.

Currently, Mokaev is ranked #6 in the UFC’s flyweight division and Kape is #7.

UFC 304 has yet to have a main or co-main event announced. The speculation is that the UFC hopes to have welterweight champion Leon Edwards and interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall compete at the event.