UFC Fight Night: Kape vs. Horiguchi – Live Results, Highlights & Post-Fight Interviews

The UFC Fight Night card at Meta APEX in Las Vegas concluded with a decisive victory for Japan’s Shinya Horiguchi, who defeated former UFC Women’s Strawweight Champion Jessica Andrade by unanimous decision in their main-event showdown. Horiguchi, who entered the bout on a four-fight win streak, improved to 11-2 in the UFC while Andrade dropped to 18-5-1. The fight marked Andrade’s first loss in 2026, ending a 12-fight win streak that included three title defenses.

Horiguchi, who had previously beaten Andrade in 2024 at UFC Fight Night: Andrade vs. Zhang, controlled the early rounds with precise takedowns and ground-and-pound exchanges. Andrade, however, responded with her signature striking and submissions in the later stages, but the judges ultimately scored the fight 50-45, 50-45, and 50-45 in favor of Horiguchi. The decision sparked immediate debate among analysts, with some questioning the judges’ scoring given Andrade’s aggressive finish.

“I knew I had to be patient,” Horiguchi told reporters post-fight. “Jessica is a warrior, but I felt like I was in control when it mattered.” Andrade, visibly frustrated, called for a rematch. “I gave everything I had,” she said. “I want to come back and finish this.” The UFC has not yet announced a potential rematch, though both fighters have expressed interest in continuing their rivalry.

Supporting the main card, the co-main event saw former UFC Lightweight Champion Charles Oliveira defeat former Bellator Lightweight Champion Alex Pereira by split decision. Oliveira, who had lost to Pereira in 2025, took the fight to the ground early and secured a takedown in the first round. Pereira, however, dominated the striking exchange in the later rounds, but the judges awarded Oliveira the victory 48-47, 47-48, and 49-46. Oliveira improved to 22-5 in the UFC, while Pereira dropped to 18-5.

The card also featured a dominant performance by former UFC Featherweight Champion Alexander Volkanovski, who defeated former Bellator Featherweight Champion Daniel Rodriguez by unanimous decision. Volkanovski, who had not lost a fight since 2021, controlled the bout with his signature wrestling and ground-and-pound tactics. The judges scored the fight 30-27, 30-27, and 30-27 in his favor. Volkanovski, now 23-1, extended his win streak to eight fights.

UFC Fight Night: Kape vs. Horiguchi drew an estimated 1.2 million average viewers on ESPN+, marking the highest-rated UFC Fight Night event of 2026. The card also saw significant engagement on social media, with Horiguchi’s victory trending globally. The event took place on June 21, 2026, at the Meta APEX venue in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Why Horiguchi’s Win Matters for the Women’s Strawweight Division

Horiguchi’s victory over Andrade strengthens his case as a top contender in the UFC Women’s Strawweight division. With Andrade now on the outside looking in, Horiguchi’s next potential challenge could be against current champion Zhang Weili, who has not yet faced a serious title threat in 2026. Analysts suggest Horiguchi’s ground game and experience make him a formidable opponent for Zhang, who has relied more on striking in her recent defenses.

Andrade’s loss also raises questions about her future in the division. While she remains a fan favorite, her inability to secure a victory against Horiguchi—twice—could impact her title aspirations. UFC officials have not yet commented on Andrade’s status, but her next fight is expected to be a high-profile comeback attempt.

According to UFC senior vice president of athlete relations, John Gianna, the organization is “monitoring the division closely” and will consider potential title opportunities based on performance. “We want to see how these fighters bounce back,” Gianna said in a statement. “The strawweight division is deep, and we’re committed to giving fans the best possible matchups.”

How the Co-Main Event Could Impact Oliveira’s Title Ambitions

Oliveira’s split-decision win over Pereira was a critical step in his quest to reclaim the UFC Lightweight title. Pereira, who had beaten Oliveira in 2025, entered the fight as the favorite, but Oliveira’s ability to secure takedowns and maintain control on the ground proved decisive. The victory also marks Oliveira’s first win over a former Bellator champion, a feat that could bolster his resume ahead of a potential title shot.

Pereira, however, remains a dangerous opponent. His striking output in the later rounds of the bout demonstrated why he is considered one of the best lightweight strikers in the world. UFC officials have not yet announced a title opportunity for Oliveira, but his performance against Pereira could accelerate those plans. According to UFC president Dana White, Oliveira is “right there” in the conversation for a title shot, provided he continues to perform at this level.

Volkanovski’s Dominance Continues: What’s Next for the Featherweight Champion?

Volkanovski’s unanimous decision victory over Rodriguez solidified his status as one of the most dominant champions in UFC history. With eight consecutive wins, Volkanovski has extended his reign as UFC Featherweight Champion, now holding the title for over two years. His ability to adapt his game plan—whether through wrestling or striking—makes him nearly unbeatable in his weight class.

Rodriguez, who had beaten Volkanovski in Bellator, entered the fight as a legitimate threat. However, Volkanovski’s experience and precision in both striking and grappling proved too much. The victory also marks Volkanovski’s first win over a former Bellator champion, further cementing his legacy as a cross-promotional force.

With no immediate title challengers on the horizon, Volkanovski’s next fight is expected to be a high-profile defense. UFC officials have hinted at potential matchups against rising stars like Ilia Topuria or Alexander Munoz, though no official announcement has been made. Volkanovski’s next bout is currently scheduled for late 2026, pending negotiations.

What Happens Next for the UFC Women’s Strawweight Division?

The UFC Women’s Strawweight division remains one of the most competitive in the organization, with multiple fighters vying for a title shot. Horiguchi’s victory over Andrade opens the door for a potential trilogy or a title opportunity against Zhang Weili. Meanwhile, Andrade’s loss could force her to explore a move to a different weight class or take on less high-profile opponents to regain momentum.

Zhang Weili, the current champion, has not yet faced a serious title threat in 2026. Her next defense is expected to be against a top contender, with Horiguchi and Andrade both expressing interest in challenging her. UFC officials have not yet confirmed a title bout, but the division’s depth ensures that a title fight is likely in the near future.

According to UFC analyst and former fighter, Rashad Evans, the division is “at a crossroads.” “Horiguchi has proven he can beat Andrade twice now,” Evans said. “If he can do the same to Zhang, he could be the next strawweight champion.” Evans also noted that Andrade’s loss could push her toward a move to flyweight, where she has had success in the past.

Key Takeaways from UFC Fight Night: Kape vs. Horiguchi

• Horiguchi’s victory solidifies his position as a top contender in the women’s strawweight division, with a potential title shot against Zhang Weili.
• Andrade’s loss ends her 12-fight win streak and raises questions about her future in the division.
• Oliveira’s split-decision win over Pereira keeps him in the conversation for a UFC Lightweight title shot.
• Volkanovski’s dominance continues, with no immediate challengers on the horizon for his featherweight title.
• The event drew 1.2 million average viewers, marking the highest-rated UFC Fight Night of 2026.

The UFC Fight Night card at Meta APEX delivered a mix of dominant performances and controversial decisions, setting the stage for future title opportunities across multiple weight classes. With Horiguchi, Oliveira, and Volkanovski all extending their winning streaks, the organization’s future events are expected to feature high-profile matchups in the coming months.