Alberton-based MMA fighter Shadrack Yemba is determined to make a statement when he returns to the Professional Fighters League (PFL) Africa cage in Pretoria on April 10.

Yemba, who trains at Apex South Gym and represents the Democratic Republic of Congo, will take on fellow countryman Jean Jacques Lubaya in a featherweight clash that he believes will determine the best fighter from their country.

Yemba said his journey into MMA began shortly after finishing high school when he decided to move to Edenvale in pursuit of greater challenges.

“I felt limited with just boxing and karate. I wanted to compete against the best, so I moved and had my first fight a month later,” he said.

What started as a passion quickly turned into success, with Yemba climbing the amateur ranks and eventually earning championship status before turning professional.

His nickname, Baba Yega, reflects his mindset inside the cage.

“There’s no fear, no expectations, no excitement; it’s just business,” he explained.

Despite representing Congo, Yemba said he draws strong support from both the Congolese community and local fans in Johannesburg and Alberton, where he has built his career.

Training at Apex South Gym has been central to his development, with intense sessions designed to push him beyond his limits.

“The goal is to go through so much in training that the fight feels like a reward rather than danger,” he said.

Reflecting on his previous PFL bout against Abdul Razac Sankara, Yemba showed maturity in defeat, acknowledging his opponent on the night.

“He was the better man. I don’t dwell on what could have been. That fight helped me grow, personally and professionally,” he said.

Now, heading into his next fight, Yemba is focused and confident.

“I’m preparing for an absolute war. I don’t know much about my opponent except that he’s tough, and that makes it exciting,” he said.

Fans can expect a dramatic performance, with Yemba promising a “Baba Yega special”.

Competing in PFL Africa, he believes, is opening doors for fighters across the continent.

“It’s giving African fighters more visibility, turning us into global stars and not just local heroes,” he said.

Looking ahead, Yemba has his sights firmly set on success.

“I will win the PFL title by the end of the year,” he said.

Outside the cage, he enjoys football, food, and spending time with his daughter, while encouraging young athletes to chase their dreams.

“Pursue your dreams, but stay in school. Fighting won’t last forever; you need to prepare for life after,” he said.

Yemba enters the bout with an impressive background, including being a GFC welterweight champion, holding black belts in karate and judo, and a purple belt in jiu-jitsu.