Kyoji Horiguchi issues statement after knockout loss to Manel Kape
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 21, 2026, 4:00 PM
Last updated Jun 21, 2026
Kyoji Horiguchi faced Manel Kape in a flyweight rematch on June 20, 2026, in Las Vegas. Horiguchi started strong but was knocked out in the third round by a counter right hand from Kape. After accepting the loss, Horiguchi expressed his determination to continue pursuing his goal of becoming flyweight champion, promising fans he will train hard and return soon. The bout marked Horiguchi's first loss since rejoining the UFC, dropping his record to 36-6 with one no contest.
- •Horiguchi lost to Kape by knockout in the third round.
- •The fight took place at UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas.
- •Horiguchi previously submitted Kape in their first meeting in 2017.
- •Horiguchi has a record of 7-1 in his last eight fights.
- •He intends to continue training with hopes of returning to championship contention.
- 4:00 PMYahoo Sports — Kyoji Horiguchi releases first statement after knockout loss to Manel Kape: ‘I’m not giving up on my dream yet’
"Kyoji Horiguchi was cruising through his rematch against Manel Kape until he got caught and finished.
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