EFC 123 AFRICA VS BRAZIL
FINAL BOUTS CONFIRMED AHEAD OF TRIPLE TITLE HEADLINERS
Johannesburg, South Africa – The final bouts for EFC 123: Africa vs Brazil have been confirmed, adding even more firepower to an already stacked card. With three titles on the line at the top of the event, these final matchups round off what promises to be a historic night at the World Sports Betting Arena.

Zhane Tannous vs. Mark Kamba – Prelim bout
One of the continent’s brightest amateur stars finally steps into the professional spotlight, as Zhane Tannous makes his long-awaited debut in the Hexagon. A multipletitle winner at the amateur level, Tannous is a proud graduate of NWU with a degree in Business and Economics and a technical specialist under submission coach Roevan de Beer at CGA in Potchefstroom. Known for his slick transitions and calm composure, Tannous has shown he can finish fights with precision — whether standing or on the ground.

Welcoming him to the professional ranks is none other than Congolese juggernaut Mark “Batolo Bacharge” Kamba, a fan favourite with hands that have ended more than a few dreams. With nine years of EFC experience, Kamba is riding the wave of a stunning first-round KO of Jaden van der Merwe, following previous brutal finishes of Elvis Ngwalangwala and Tyron Bester. Tannous may be new to the pro scene, but he’s no greenhorn — and this middleweight battle is a collision of hunger and heavy artillery.

Terence Balelo vs. Marcio Oliveira – Main card bout
The Hex welcomes an international flyweight showdown as South Africa’s own Terence “Black Panther” Balelo takes on Brazil’s Marcio “Sayajin” Oliveira.

Fresh off a hard-fought campaign as number one contender, Balelo finds himself at a career crossroads. With the recent departure of flyweight champion Edson to ONE FC, many expected Balelo to wait for a title shot — but instead, the warrior’s mentality prevailed. Choosing to stay active and test himself against the best Brazil has to offer, Balelo now faces a dangerous challenge in Oliveira.

With a 7-2 record and an impressive submission arsenal, Oliveira is a proud representative of Itacoatiara, Amazonas. His well-rounded game and finishing instinct make him a formidable opponent in the Hexagon. For Balelo, it’s not just about proving he belongs at the top — it’s about earning it all over again.

A Night of Titles, Nations, and Legacy
EFC 123 is anchored by three explosive championship clashes, including:
• Amanda Lino vs. Mariana Salles for the vacant women’s flyweight title
• JC Lamprecht vs. Luis Paulo Picanço in a brutal light heavyweight showdown
• Willie van Rooyen vs. Kleberson Sousa for the vacant flyweight belt
Africa’s finest meet Brazil’s best in a battle of nations, generations, and rising legacies.
EFC 123 Africa vs Brazil takes place on Thursday 8th May 2025, live from the World
Sports Betting Arena at the EFC Performance Institute in JHB, South Africa.

1 April 2025

MADNESS RETURNS TO FACE THE HUMBLE WARRIOR

EFC 123 TO SEE ELS VS SITA IN EXPLOSIVE LIGHTWEIGHT SHOWDOWN

Johannesburg, South Africa – On the cusp of EFC 122, the EFC (Extreme Fighting Championship) is gearing up for another action-packed event at the World Sports Betting Arena. The next event, EFC 123 is confirmed to feature two electrifying lightweight fighters, Marcel Els and Emmanuel Sita, who are set to collide in a thrilling bout that is sure to leave fans on the edge of their seats.

After a five-year hiatus from the Hexagon, Marcel "Madness" Els is eager to remind fans of his exciting, high-octane fighting style. Known for his explosive finishes, Els has made quick work of opponents such as Nerik Simoes, Amisi Kabeya, and Rocky Ilunga, consistently delivering one-punch knockouts and thrilling submissions. Fighting out of the House of Tinkerbell, Els is renowned for his aggressive approach and desire to finish the fight early, and he's ready to bring the heat once again.

However, he faces a formidable challenge in Emmanuel "The Humble Warrior" Sita, a Claremont-based striker whose career has been defined by his penchant for first-round finishes. With all of his victories coming in the opening round, Sita is a dangerous competitor who has shown time and again that he's capable of ending a fight in the blink of an eye. Coming off a hard-fought battle against Ayanda Zwane, which ended in a thrilling firefight, Sita has taken the time to reset and is now hungry for a victory to solidify his place among the division's best.

Both fighters are known for their ruthless aggression and desire to finish fights quickly, making this matchup a can't-miss spectacle for fans of explosive, high-intensity action. With both men determined to prove they belong at the top of the lightweight division, this fight is sure to deliver fireworks inside the Hexagon.

EFC 123 takes place on Thursday 8th May 2025, live from the World Sports Betting Arena at the EFC Performance Institute in JHB, South Africa.

2 WEEKS TO GO!

28 March 2025

EFC 122 heavyweight and bantamweight championship fight card is STACKED with returning fan-favourites and rising contenders.

The Hlongwa brothers are back to bring their signature fire, and after a long-awaited return, Asiashu Tshitamba is ready to make a statement! Meanwhile, momentum is everything in the fight game, and athletes like Adrian Sanchez, Nathanieal Komana, and Thimna Mhauli - who's been tearing through his division - are all riding winning streaks into battle.

And that's just the beginning…

Stay locked in, because EFC 122 is shaping up to be an unmissable event!

NEW TALENTS EMERGE IN AFRICAN MMA

20 MARCH 2025

Johannesburg, South Africa – March 20, 2025 - The second season of the EFC Contender Series has concluded, delivering yet another exciting chapter in the rise of African mixed martial arts. The event showcased a diverse and highly skilled group of fighters who battled for the chance to earn a professional contract with EFC. As the evening unfolded, it became clear that the future of African MMA is bright, with many rising stars making their mark. After an intense night of competition, Coenie Lamprecht, Linda Baraza, and Litha Madikiza were each awarded EFC contracts, earning their opportunity to compete at the highest level.

The Main Card featured thrilling bouts across several divisions. Fighters demonstrated exceptional skill, heart, and determination, proving that the Contender Series is the perfect platform for discovering the next generation of MMA talent.

In addition to the main card action, the Prelim Bouts featured fierce competition, with fighters from various weight classes displaying their unique fighting styles and athleticism. The event once again demonstrated the depth of talent emerging from across the African continent.

As the evening wrapped up, it was clear that the EFC Contender Series continues to serve as a crucial pathway for aspiring fighters to break into the global MMA scene. With a focus on discovering and developing African talent, EFC is committed to providing opportunities for fighters to progress in their careers and make their mark on the world stage.

EFC Contender Series Season 2 Final Results:

MAIN CARD BOUTS

CATCHWEIGHT 143lbs
Mika Ngomane defeated Hlompho Phomodi via split decision after 3 rounds

CATCHWEIGHT 162.8lbs
Sebastian Ferreira defeated Jethro Swan via rear naked choke in round 2 (1:57)

MIDDLEWEIGHT 184.8lbs
Grant Farrow defeated Sam Mbhele via unanimous decision after 3 rounds

CATCHWEIGHT 138.6lbs
Coenie Lamprecht defeated Joel Smit via Anaconda in round 1 (2:10)

PRELIM BOUTS

CATCHWEIGHT 147.4lbs
JJ Karagiannidis defeated Bryn Gwavava via unanimous decision after 3 rounds

HEAVYWEIGHT 264lbs
Frederik Eloff defeated Mbasa Khosa via unanimous decision after 3 rounds

WOMEN'S FLYWEIGHT 125.4lbs
Linda Baraza defeated Bianca Campher via armbar in round 2 (2:57)

FEATHERWEIGHT 145.2lbs
Litha Madikiza defeated PJ Meissenheimer via unanimous decision after 3 rounds

BANTAMWEIGHT 134.2lbs
Sanele Shabalala defeated Thapelo Malatjie via majority decision after 3 rounds.

BANTAMWEIGHT 134.2lbs
Kwaanza Zondo defeated Sherazaad Dollie via Rear Naked Choke in Round 1 (2:07)

CATCHWEIGHT 149.6lbs
Bruce Mayasi defeated Luke Ackers via TKO in Round 3 (2:01)

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)

:

12 December 2024

CLASH OF THE TITANS

Final EFC of the year unleashes a battle for glory!

Johannesburg, 12 December 2024: EFC 120 was an action-packed night of mixed martial arts, closing out the year with an unforgettable series of bouts that had fans on the edge of their seats. From title changes to grudge matches and debut victories, this event had it all. Here's a closer look at the key moments of the night:

The night ended with a thrilling title fight in the welterweight division between Luke Michael and Zaakir Badat. Michael came out aggressive, looking for a takedown early on, but Badat's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills and physical strength were on full display. Despite Michael's efforts, Badat was able to quickly regain control and reverse the position before unleashing a hellacious onslaught of ground and pound. The Champ then locked in a rear-naked choke, forcing Michael to tap out in the first round, securing Badat's victory and remain as the Welterweight Champion. His successful title defence marked his reign as the king of the welterweight division, further solidifying his elite status in EFC.

Though Michael came up short in this fight, he remains a formidable athlete in the middleweight division, holding onto his title in that division, setting-up intriguing future matchups in 2025.

The co-main event was a highly anticipated clash between Igeu Smiley Kabesa and Martin The Punisher Van Staden for the lightweight title. Both athletes were well aware of each other's strengths and weaknesses, and the fight played out with a sense of calculated strategy and intense action. The bout delivered exactly what fans were hoping for, with both men showcasing their skills and heart. However, it was Martin Van Staden who emerged victorious, staggering the champion with short but powerful shots and dethroning the most decorated EFC champion in history by sinking in a second-round rear-naked choke and claiming the Lightweight Championship. His performance was a testament to his resilience and tactical approach in the fight. Igeu Kabesa needed immediate medical attention post bout and was subsequently transported and admitted to hospital for urgent care. The EFC team is hoping to hear positive news regarding the situation and our thoughts are with him.

The grudge match between Musa Setwape and Shannon Van Tonder was full of bad blood, and as a result it did not disappoint. At the culmination of a heated fight week, Van Tonder proved to be the superior athlete on the night, outclassing Setwape on the feet to claim victory. His win answered the question of who the better athlete on the night was, with Van Tonder securing bragging rights in the rivalry though the record between the two foes now remain one a-piece. The result was a definitive win for Shannon Van Tonder, who cemented his place as a top contender in the division despite agreeing to the trilogy fight to decide who will have the ultimate bragging rights.

The prelims were filled with exciting prospects and raw talent, showcasing some of the best athletes South Africa has to offer.

Jaden Van der Merwe, a newly signed athlete, lived up to the hype by defeating seasoned competitor Christopher Matukane. Van der Merwe displayed his potential with a dominant performance, and the referee stopped the fight due to a TKO, signalling a bright future for Van der Merwe in the organization.

JT Botha made a sensational comeback after a tough streak, and with a deadly right hand, he took out his opponent in just 39 seconds, marking a quick and dominant victory.

Terrence Born, also making his professional debut in the heavyweight division, had a spectacular first outing. He faced Jeremie Tshibala, and the fight was a spectacle from start to finish. Born won his pro debut via a rear-naked choke, earning a Technical Decision after the referee intervened, adding another promising prospect to the EFC roster.

Overall, EFC 120 lived up to its billing as a showcase of South African MMA, with exciting matchups, brutal finishes, and title fights that will be remembered for years to come. The event not only crowned new champions but also featured the rise of fresh talent, making it a thrilling night for MMA fans. With so many storylines in play, there's no doubt that the future of the EFC looks brighter than ever!

OFFICIAL EFC 120 RESULTS:

Main Card

WELTERWEIGHT TITLE FIGHT

Zaakir Badat def Luke Michael via Tapout due to rear naked Choke Round 1 (3:55)

LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE FIGHT

Martin van Staden def Igeu Kabesa via Tapout due to Rear Naked Choke Round 2 (3:24)

BANTAMWEIGHT FIGHT

Shannon van Tonder def Musa Sethwape via Unanimous Decision after 3 rounds

FEATHERWEIGHT FIGHT

Ken Sekeletu def Vince Bembe via TKO due to Strikes in Round 1 (3:50)

BANTAMWEIGHT FIGHT

Sibusiso Sovendle def Ntando Zondi via Split Decision after 3 rounds

Prelim Card

MIDDLEWEIGHT FIGHT

JT Botha def Khulekani Hlongwa via TKO due to Strikes in Round 1 (0:39)

BANTAMWEIGHT FIGHT

Moses Mokhari def Rian Dunn via TKO due to Strikes in Round 2 (1:10)

HEAVYWEIGHT FIGHT

Terrence Born def Jeremie Tshibala via TKO due to Strikes in Round 2 (1:57)

BANTAMWEIGHT FIGHT

Thimna Mhlauli def David Mambo via TKO due to Strikes in Round 1 (3:19)

MIDDLEWEIGHT FIGHT

Jaden Van Der Merwe def Christopher Matukane via TKO due to Rear Naked Choke in Round 1 (2:40)

Photos from the EFC 120 Fight Night can be found here <https://efc.photoshelter.com/gallery-collection/FIGHT-NIGHT/C0000lOeZLgXFZp8>

PERFORMANCE BONUSES:

Jaden van Der Merwe

Thimna Mhlauli

Moses Mokhari

JT Botha

Shannon Van Tonder

FIGHT OF THE NIGHT:

Zondi vs Sovendle

EFC 121 is presented by World Sports Betting and takes place on Thursday, 6 March 2025, live from the World Sports Betting EFC Arena in JHB, South Africa.

Broadcast information at www.efcworldwide.com <http://www.efcworldwide.com/>

About EFC – The Extreme Fighting Championship

Headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, EFC is a world leading mixed martial arts (MMA) organisation. EFC produces 10 live events annually. With over 200 athletes exclusively contracted to the organisation, EFC showcases the greatest warriors on the planet.

EFC events are broadcast in over 120 countries around the world on numerous television networks in multiple languages. EFC programming is available weekly in 600+ million TV households globally, making it one of the most recognisable MMA brands in the world.

For more information visit efcworldwide.com, or follow us on social media.

Facebook: facebook.com/EFCworldwide

Twitter: twitter.com/EFCworldwide

Instagram: Instagram.com/EFCWorldwide <http://instagram.com/EFCWorldwide>

EFC 120: THE MOST ANTICIPATED MMA EVENT OF THE YEAR!

9 December 2024 Johannesburg, South Africa- With two Championship titles on the line and a stacked fight card, EFC 120 is set to end the 2024 combat sports calendar in dramatic fashion.

Current Middleweight champion Luke Michael will challenge Zaakir Badat for the welterweight title to secure his name in the history books with the likes of other double champ status elite members like Dricus du Plessis. Durban's grappling phenom Zaakir Badat goes head to head with Michael as he mounts his very first title defence in a main event that pitches his jiu-jitsu excellence against Michaels' dominant wrestling in a tantalising clash of grappling styles. That being said, both athletes boast of massive highlight reel knockouts having fists that can finish a bout in a millisecond. The stakes for both fighters have never been higher.

Current double champ Igeu"Smiley" Kabesa is set to defend one of his belts in a lightweight championship bout against the formidable Martin 'The Punisher" Van Staden, who recently made his eager return to the hex. This matchup carries a rich history that adds weight to its significance. Kabesa and Van Staden are not just two of the most accomplished fighters ever to come out of Africa - but they are also friends and former training partners. Their rivalry will now be ignited under the bright lights of the EFC hexagon, where camaraderie makes way for championship ambition. This matchup promises to be one of the most thrilling and emotionally charged fights in EFC history.

The drama surrounding Musa "Bad News" Sethwape and Shannon Van Tonder adds yet another layer of intrigue to this already stacked card. Last year, Van Tonder was forced to withdraw from their scheduled bantamweight title fight and rematch just a day before the event due to health issues. Sethwape, ever the warrior, agreed to face last-minute replacement Terence "Black Panther" Balelo, who went on to defeat Sethwape and claim the Bantamweight Championship. Having fought previously at the landmark EFC 100 event, which Sethwape won by the judge's decision, Van Tonder is out for revenge, but 'Bad News' still has his eyes on the ultimate prize and is eager to get back on track toward a future showdown with the current bantamweight champion, Faeez Jacobs. With their bad blood yet to be settled, the grudge match between Sethwape and Van Tonder is sure to deliver fireworks.

With a fight card featuring some of the best up-and-coming talent, EFC 120 will be a night full of explosive action, unexpected twists, and the crowning of new champions or the defence of titles by some of the greatest names in the history of African MMA. Mark your calendars for December 12, 2024,Whether you're watching from home or in the stands, this event will have something for every MMA fan. Don't miss your chance to witness history in the making!

EFC CONTENDER SERIES – A PLATFORM FOR AFRICA'S NEXT MMA STARS







Johannesburg, South Africa 3 December 2024 – The EFC Contender Series, an
event designed to showcase the brightest amateur MMA talent from across
Africa, is set to take place on Thursday, December 5th, at the World Sports
Betting EFC Arena. This unique event will give up-and-coming athletes the
chance to compete for a coveted professional contract with the
world-renowned EFC organisation.



The EFC Contender Series will feature a series of high-energy amateur
bouts, with athletes battling for the opportunity to make the jump from
amateur to professional MMA. Each competitor will step into the hex with
one goal in mind: to impress EFC matchmakers and earn a spot on the
prestigious EFC roster.



Broadcast live on efcworldwide.tv and with the best bouts to be featured in
future TV episodes, The EFC Contender Series promises to be key in
discovering the next generation of African MMA talent, providing a platform
for athletes to display their skills and gain valuable exposure.



To kick off the excitement leading into EFC 120 on 12 December, a press
conference featuring top EFC athletes Luke Michael, Igeu Kabesa, and Martin
van Staden will follow shortly after the Contender Series. This will
provide fans and media with a chance to hear directly from the stars ahead
of the much-anticipated EFC 120 event.



Stay tuned for more updates and don't miss your chance to be part of this
thrilling night of combat sports!



The first EFC Contender Series takes place on Thursday, 5 December 2024,
live from the World Sports Betting EFC Arena in JHB, South Africa and will
be broadcast live on efcworldwide.tv <http://efcworldwide.tv/>



Broadcast information at www.efcworldwide.com
<http://www.efcworldwide.com/>



Any media looking to attend the event are reminded to please send us an
email: media@efcworldwide.com <media@efcworldwide.com>



About EFC – The Extreme Fighting Championship

Headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, EFC is a world leading mixed
martial arts (MMA) organisation. EFC produces 10 live events annually. With
over 200 athletes exclusively contracted to the organisation, EFC showcases
the greatest warriors on the planet.



EFC events are broadcast in over 120 countries around the world on numerous
television networks in multiple languages. EFC programming is available
weekly in 600+ million TV households globally, making it one of the most
recognisable MMA brands in the world.



For more information visit efcworldwide.com, or follow us on social media.

Facebook: facebook.com/EFCworldwide

Twitter: twitter.com/EFCworldwide

Instagram: Instagram.com/EFCWorldwide <http://instagram.com/EFCWorldwide>

NIGHT OF KNOCKOUTS DELIVERS THRILLING

FACEOFFS FIRE-UP FIGHT FANS

Official EFC 119 Weigh-ins

Johannesburg, 13 November 2024 – The atmosphere at the World Sports Betting EFC Arena was electric as 24 fighters took to the scales today ahead of tomorrow night's event. While tensions running high at the scale, every athlete successfully passed the governing body's muster and looked charged and ready for battle in what promises to be another truly unforgettable night of MMA action.

For fans of high-stakes action, the matchup between Kaleka Kabanda (6-7) and Patrick Ocheme (3-0) is a must-watch as it kicks-off the main card following a sensational set of preliminary bouts. World Sports Betting has Kabanda pegged as the clear favourite despite his hard-fought loss to Igeu Kabesa at EFC 112 where he nonetheless proved himself a formidable competitor and remains one to watch in the division. Ocheme, even though boasting of an undefeated perfect 3-0 record in the EFC is a massive WSB underdog. But the question remains: Can the rising star handle the experience and skill of a seasoned athlete like Kaleka "The Block" Kabanda? The outcome is anyone's guess.

The most heated moment of the weigh-ins came during the faceoff between interim flyweight champion Terence Black Panther Balelo and his challenger, Edson Trapdoor Spider Machavane. Balelo, known for his fiery yet enigmatic personality, attempted to rattle his opponent by getting in Machavane's face, but the undefeated Mozambican remained unshaken and unphased. The number 1 contender's calm demeanour only seemed to fuel the anticipation for their headlining title clash tomorrow night. With both fighters on the right side of the needle, the tension between the two promises to deliver fireworks in the Hexagon in one of the most hotly-anticipated championship clashes of the year.

With the women's bantamweight title fight occupying the co-main event, Pretorian Dayne "Quiet Storm" Van Wyk made a calm and composed appearance on the scales, looking focused and ready for her fight against Nigeria's knock-out artist Juliet Chukwu. Chukwu, similarly, weighed-in with a stoic calmness and both women appeared determined and prepared for the battle that awaits them tomorrow night.

Shadrack Nsua faced off against the undefeated Siya "The Chef" Nomvemve in what promises to be an intriguing clash of styles. Mpumalanga's Nomvemve, with a flawless 3-0 record in the EFC, enters the fight with momentum and confidence, but Gqeberha's giant Nsua is no stranger to high-level competition and will bring his wealth of experience to the Hex.

Another exciting fight on the card which is one of four Nigeria versus Congo clashes, sees Horatious Alonu take on Ziko The Gorilla Makengela. Alonu, a methodical and focused athlete, appeared sharp and ready as he hit the scales. Makengela, who's returning to the EFC after a year-long hiatus following his welterweight title loss to now teammate Mark Hulme (CIT), looked equally prepared. Makengela is eager to climb the rankings once again, eyeing a potential title shot after the champion is decided at EFC 120 next month.

With all 24 athletes making weight and ready for action, EFC 119 is shaping up to be a spectacular event courtesy of a card that features a compelling mix of top contenders, undefeated rising stars, and established veterans, all hungry for victory. As the athletes step into the hexagon tomorrow night, the energy in the arena will undoubtedly reach a fever pitch. So expect fireworks, as these warriors leave it all on the line for glory, title shots, and the chance to make their mark on the EFC stage. The Hex lights are set, the athletes are ready, and EFC 119 is poised to deliver a night of sensational MMA action.

Main Card

FLYWEIGHT TITLE FIGHT

Terence Balelo (SA) 124.7lbs vs. Edson Machavane (SA) 123.3lbs

WOMEN'S BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE FIGHT

Dayne Van Wyk (SA) 132.8lbs vs. Juliet Chukwu (NGA) 132.5lbs

MIDDLEWEIGHT FIGHT

Shadrack Nsua (DRC) 183.9lbs vs. Siyakudumisa Nomvemve (SA) 184.6lbs

WELTERWEIGHT FIGHT

Horatious Alonu (NGA) 168.8lbs vs. Ziko Makengele (DRC) 167.4lbs

LIGHTWEIGHT FIGHT

Kaleka Kabanda (DRC) 155 lbs vs. Patrick Ocheme (NGA) 154.8lbs

Prelim Card

LIGHTWEIGHT FIGHT

Adrian Sanchez (SA) 153.8lbs vs. Elvis Ngwalangwala (SA) 154.3lbs

WELTERWEIGHT FIGHT

British Boloyoang (SA) 168.5lbs vs. Christian Omokhobio (NGA) 167.4lbs

FEATHERWEIGHT FIGHT

Tapiwa Katikati (SA) 144.7lbs vs. Nerik simoes (AGO) 143.4lbs

BANTAMWEIGHT FIGHT

Moses Mokhari (SA) 134lbs vs. Roevan De Beer (SA) 134.4lbs

FEATHERWEIGHT FIGHT

Allistar Kunene (SA) 144.8lbs vs. Yaseen Adams (SA) 144.8lbs

LIGHTWEIGHT FIGHT

William Lekana (DRC) 152 lbs vs. Roberto Miyaba (DRC) 152lbs

BANTAMWEIGHT FIGHT

Vincent Nakana (SA) 132.8 lbs vs. Thapelo Seabi (SA) 133.4lbs

EFC 119: ONE WEEK TO GO - A QUIET STORM IS BREWING

7 November 2024, Johannesburg, South Africa – EFC 119 is poised to deliver an action-packed evening of world-class MMA, with two championship titles on the line which head a massive 12-fight card that promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats.

In the main event, current Interim Flyweight Champion Terence "Black Panther" Balelo will defend his title against the undefeated Edson "Trapdoor Spider" Machavane in what is expected to be an electrifying clash of styles. Machavane, with an immaculate 5-0-0 record in the EFC, has emerged as one of the most talented grappling prospects in the 125lb division. His last victory, a unanimous decision win in July 2024 earned him the Fight of the Night honours, showcasing his ability to go the distance in gruelling battles.

The Mozambican's flawless record and his remarkable fight IQ makes him arguably the toughest opponent Balelo has ever faced in his career. However, Balelo is feared throughout the division for his aggressive approach and lethal submission game, which made an immediate impact in his last fight against French kickboxer Liridon Ramani in June 2024, securing a first-round guillotine choke victory. His footwork, scrambles and lightning-quick finishing ability makes him one of the most dangerous men competing in the EFC today.

With two of the flyweight division's top fighters throwing down for gold in the Hexagon, this championship bout is guaranteed to be one of the most thrilling title fights of 2024. EFC fans are eagerly anticipating to see how Balelo's explosive style will fare against Machavane's precision and composure, with both athletes looking to solidify their place as the top flyweight in the organisation's history.

The co-main event will feature an explosive matchup for the EFC Women's Bantamweight Championship, as Juliet Chukwu (6-1-0) faces off against the undefeated Dayne "Quiet Storm" Van Wyk (4-0-0) in the biggest fight to go down in Women's MMA this year. Nigerian sensation Chukwu, the more experienced of the two, has already proven herself as one of the best in the division, and at 6-1, she is a seasoned competitor who possesses a well-rounded skillset that blends technique with raw power.

However, van Wyk, known for her stamina and titanium chin, enters the bout with an undefeated record in the EFC. The rising star from Pretoria has quickly gained attention with her never-back-down performances, and her unbreakable will to win makes her an incredibly dangerous opponent for Chukwu. This fight could see a battle of attrition, with Chukwu relying on her experience and tactical experience, while van Wyk looks to overpower her with her relentless forward-footed aggression and top-drawer cardio.

Will Chukwu be able to weather the storm Van Wyk is bringing into the Hex, or will it be the young star who claims the belt and cements herself as the new queen of the bantamweight division? This matchup promises to be an intriguing clash of styles, with both athletes poised to leave everything on the line in their pursuit of championship glory.

The preliminary card of EFC 119 is just as stacked, featuring a total of eight action-packed bouts that are sure to get fans fired up from the opening bell. With the talent and intensity on display in these matchups headlined by two championship titles and a stacked undercard featuring some of the best talent in African MMA, Whether you're a fan of fast-paced striking, merciless ground-and-pound, tactical submissions or jaw-dropping knockouts, this event has something for every MMA enthusiast.

Main Card

FLYWEIGHT TITLE FIGHT

Terence Balelo vs. Edson Machavane

WOMEN'S BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE FIGHT

Dayne Van Wyk vs. Juliet Chukwu

MIDDLEWEIGHT FIGHT

Shadrack Nsua vs. Siyaku Dumisa Nomvemve

WELTERWEIGHT FIGHT

Horatiius Ndidi Alonu vs. Ziko Makengele

LIGHTWEIGHT FIGHT

Kaleka Kabanda vs. Patrick Ocheme

Prelim Card

LIGHTWEIGHT FIGHT

Elvis Ngwalangwala vs. Adrian Sanchez

WELTERWEIGHT FIGHT

British Boloyoang vs. Christian Omokhobio

FEATHERWEIGHT FIGHT

Tapiwa Katikati vs. Nerik simoes

BANTAMWEIGHT FIGHT

Moses Mokhari vs. Roevan De Beer

FEATHERWEIGHT FIGHT

Allistar Kunene vs. Yaseen Adams

FEATHERWEIGHT FIGHT

Amisi Kabeya vs. Robert Miyaba

BANTAMWEIGHT FIGHT

Vincent Nakana vs.Thapelo Seabi