Manel KapevsBrandon Royval

From opening bell, Manel Kape can dictate pace in the pocket, averaging 5.0 significant strikes per minute while Brandon Royval looks to settle behind counters. Expect the red corner to test range with layered entries that neutralize the Southpaw stance angles.

The AgentMMA simulator flagged this as one of the tightest matchups on the card—where pace control and craftier counter windows and better damage mitigation could flip the entire narrative. Brandon Royval must answer with clinch resets and smart cage craft to stay competitive.

Brandon Royval owns the cleaner takedown mechanics (75%) but must solve the 81% sprawl from Manel Kape.

Championship intangibles and late-round cardio will decide who takes this. But which fighter owns the edge? Keep an eye on momentum swings between rounds two and three, where AgentMMA flags the highest volatility.