32 African fighters to feature as Kamaru Usman-inspired MMA championship holds in Lagos

Thirty-two fighters from 14 countries on the continent will be contesting for glory at the first-ever All-Africa Championship in Lagos.

The event is powered by Kamaru Usman, former UFC welterweight champion also known as the Nigerian Nightmare.

The championship, hosted by African Knockout (AKO), Usman’s mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion company, is billed for Friday at the SOL By BoxMall, Oniru.

In a statement, the company said the contest included fights in five weight class categories.

“For the first time ever, 36 warriors representing 14 African countries will converge in Lagos to determine the inaugural African AKO Champion,” Usman said.

“Some of the fighters to look out for include Cherif Drame (Benin Republic), Daniel Emeka (Nigeria), Jibrin Inuwa Baba (Nigeria), Mohammed Juma (South Sudan) and others.”

On her part, Natasha Belousova, chief executive officer (CEO) of 54 Limited, the promoters of the AKO Championship, said the contest is aimed to “promote MMA in Africa and provide a platform for young fighters”.

“Our goal is to promote MMA in Africa and provide a platform for young fighters to showcase their skills on a global stage. We are committed to empowering African fighters by providing them with the necessary resources to succeed,” she said.

“With our continental championship format this season, we intend to create a sustainable model for MMA in Africa that will benefit the fighters and contribute to the sport’s growth and development on the continent.”