Capetown hosts history, as PFL Africa launches with a packed event

CAPE TOWN, South Africa — The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is making a significant mark on the African MMA scene with the launch of PFL Africa, set to debut on Saturday, July 26 at the GrandWest Arena in Cape Town. This maiden voyage will feature both PFL Africa’s first tournament bouts and the kickoff of the PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai.

PFL Africa tournament takes center stage

The newly minted league will commence with the Heavyweight and Bantamweight divisions, each boasting eight-man brackets. Fighters will advance through semifinals and finals, all in pursuit of the inaugural PFL Africa Tournament title.

• Heavyweight First Round Bout: Jashell Ticha Awa (3-1) vs. Justin Clarke (2-0)
• Bantamweight First Round Bout: Nkosi Ndebele (8-3) vs. Mahmoud Atef (5-2)
• Heavyweight First Round Bout: Abdoullah Kane (3-0) vs. Mohammad Ben Yahia (9-4)
• Bantamweight First Round Bout: Simbarashe Hokonya (5-0) vs. Abderrahman Errachidy (4-1)

PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai shines bright in Cape Town

The Cape Town event will also serve as the stage for three PFL Champions Series bouts, highlighted by a World Title clash.

• Middleweight World Title Main Event: Johnny Eblen (16-0) vs. Costello van Steenis (16-3)
• Women’s Flyweight Co-Main Event: Dakota Ditcheva (14-0) vs. Sumiko Inaba (8-1)

Global names and distribution partners ensure widespread access

The prestigious launch of PFL Africa is backed by a powerhouse cadre, including global MMA icon and newly appointed chairman Francis Ngannou, capital partner Helios Sports & Entertainment Group, and distribution heavyweights Canal+ (French-language broadcasts) and SuperSport. The latter two will ensure widespread coverage across Africa, while a mobile-first platform will extend reach even further.

“Kicking off the PFL Champions Series in Cape Town alongside the launch of PFL Africa reflects our commitment to grow the sport of MMA throughout the continent… With PFL Europe, PFL MENA and now PFL Africa launching, PFL’s international growth strategy and footprint is unmatched in the sport.”

Looking ahead: More divisions and cities to follow

The initial PFL Africa Tournament will stay in the Heavyweight and Bantamweight divisions, with subsequent events adding more weight classes. The schedule and host cities for the semifinals and finals will be announced shortly.