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EFC CONTENDER SERIES: DISCOVERING AFRICA'S FUTURE CHAMPIONS

EFC CONTENDER SERIES: DISCOVERING AFRICA'S FUTURE CHAMPIONS

Johannesburg, South Africa 5 December 2024 – The inaugural EFC Contender
Series lit up the African MMA scene, highlighting the exceptional talent
emerging from the continent. This new platform is designed to identify and
showcase Africa's next-generation fighters, providing a pathway to the
professional ranks while raising the profile of mixed martial arts in
Africa. The night concluded with EFC contracts being offered to Ash Zola,
Sean Frost, Brandon Santos, and Mfanafuthi Ngobese.

The event kicked off with a thrilling victory from Thapelo Malatjie, who
secured the first win of the evening with a dominant rear-naked choke
submission in the second round. Malatjie's smooth grappling transitions and
sharp awareness were on full display as he capitalised on his opponent's
mistakes, setting a high standard for the night's competition.

A highly anticipated bout of the night was the heavyweight clash between
Emmanuel Okafor and Mbasa Khosa. In a brutal back-and-forth, Okafor showed
incredible resilience, absorbing multiple punishing blows from Khosa.
Despite his valiant effort, Okafor's body was pushed to its limits, and he
was carried out of the Hexagon on a stretcher after three gruelling rounds.
Khosa emerged victorious, but the fight showcased the heart and spirit of
both competitors—setting the stage for a promising career for Khosa, whose
striking power proved to be the difference in the contest.

Sean Frost delivered a masterclass in ground and pound against Grant
Farrow, leaving no doubt about his dominance inside the Hex. He took
control of the action, overwhelming his opponent with relentless pressure
and precision strikes. His superior control on the ground was evident
throughout the entire bout, as he consistently neutralized his opponent's
attempts to escape or mount any offense. He walked away victorious with all
three judges scoring in his favour.

Ash Zola showcased an exceptional level of composure and skill during his
bout against Litha Madikiza that belied the intensity of the competition.
His masterful display of technique and strategic dominance, pressured
Madikiza at every turn, methodically breaking down his defence. The
decisive moment came when Zola transitioned smoothly into a rear-naked
choke, a submission that left their opponent with no avenue for escape.

The highlight of the evening came in the bout between rising stars
Mfanafuthi Ngobese and Brandon Santos. Both fighters delivered a
masterclass in MMA, combining technical striking with elite-level
grappling. Their fast-paced, skilful performance earned the respect of fans
and analysts alike, leaving no doubt that both men are future EFC
contenders to watch.

At the post-event press conference Ash Zola, Sean Frost, Brandon Santos,
and Mfanafuthi Ngobese were each offered professional contracts with EFC.
The EFC Contender Series will continue to play a pivotal role in providing
a legitimate platform for Africa's top amateur athletes to be scouted by
EFC's matchmakers and potentially rise to the global stage.

Looking ahead to 2025, EFC is committed to fostering the development of
African talent while maintaining the highest standards of competition. The
EFC Contender Series is not only a platform for aspiring professional
fighters but a crucial step in raising the level of matchmaking and
preparation for athletes hoping to turn pro.

It was clear that this event will become a cornerstone of African MMA. The
competition was fierce, and the athletes demonstrated heart, skill, and a
burning desire to make their mark on the sport. The success of the event
has set the stage for more to come, and with the next series already on the
horizon, fans and fighters alike can expect even more intense battles and
historic moments in the months and years ahead.

EFC Contender Series Final Results

Prelims

Catchweight

Thapelo Malatjie def David Champali via Tap Out due to Rear Naked Choke in
Round 2 (1:13)

Welterweight

Baz Guelas def Boyka Botha after 3 Rounds via Split Decision

Heavyweight

Mbasa Khosa def Emmanuel Okafor after 3 Rounds via Split Decision

Featherweight

Ash Zola def Litha Madikiza via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke in Round 2
(1.11)

Main Card

Catchweight

Sean Frost def Grant Farrow by Unanimous Decision after 3 Rounds

Bantamweight

Sipho Mlaba def Qhayiya Pefile via TKO due to Strikes in Round 1 (2.09)

Catchweight

Jeremie Likobele def Jethro Swan via TKO due to Strikes in Round 2 (2.07)

Middleweight

Ruben Fourie def Jody Kasongo via Unanimous Decision after 3 Rounds

Bantamweight

Brandon Santos def Mfanafuthi Ngobese via Tapout due to Arm Bar Round 3
(1.58)