Van Tells Kape To Start Cutting Ahead Of Title Fight

Joshua Van has already started mind games with Manel Kape ahead of their expected flyweight title clash.

Van, who retained his title at UFC 331 with a decision win over Alexandre Pantoja in their rematch, warned his top contender about weight issues on social media. The champion wrote that Kape should begin his cut immediately and avoid another weight excuse, per BJPenn.com.

Kape Fires Back At Van's Challenge

Kape responded by accusing the champion of hiding. "Finally came out of hiding, son?" he wrote. "They told me you weren't sure about facing your dad, but I guess there's nowhere left to run." He added that the weight he is carrying will help him put Van to sleep faster than Charles Johnson did.

Van rejected the hiding claim outright, saying he has been around the entire time while Kape was busy shopping for other things. The challenger shot back with a warning about their potential meeting, writing that he only needs one clean shot and Van's face will no longer match his passport.

The fight has not been officially announced, but both men are already treating it as inevitable. A date should be confirmed soon.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Joshua Van, Manel Kape fire shots at each other ahead of potential title fight: ‘Finally came out of hiding’