Rising mixed martial arts star hunts for sponsors to fuel his dream.
Fierce flyweight Mfanafuthi Ngobese has fought his way to a 2–2 pro record in the EFC. Now, as he eyes his next bout, he's reaching out for sponsorship support, offering real visibility, community pride, and authentic partnership in return.
Mfanafuthi Ngobese is clear about his fire to be the best fighter in the world.
That drive has carried him from amateur success defending his belt four times with the Muay Thai MMA Boys, to two more bouts at Versus in Pretoria, to signing a pro contract in 2024 after joining Silverback MMA in Durban. His EFC journey shows grit and growth. He debuted strongly at EFC 121 in June 2025 with a guillotine choke win, suffered a quick rear-naked choke loss at EFC 127, then rebounded at EFC 129, in November 2025, by submitting Mika Ngomane in Round 2. “I saw a lot of improvements, especially on my groundwork. I have been training in a lot of grappling classes, and it worked, my skills were improved, and I’m keeping it like that.”
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Behind the cage successes, however, lies a tough reality for local pros. “Financial stability is one of the biggest challenges.”
Income arrives only per fight, with long gaps in between, while costs never stop: monthly training fees, specialised coaching, strength programmes, physiotherapy, nutrition and supplements, weight-cut prep, travel and accommodation from Durban to Johannesburg events, licensing, medicals, and gear replacements. “Balancing these expenses, while maintaining peak performance, requires sacrifice and personal investment, often without guaranteed returns.”
Sponsorship, he stresses, would be a game-changer right now. It would let him focus fully on training without financial strain, invest in better coaching and recovery, enter camps fully prepared, and take on more fight opportunities. “Your support would not simply fund expenses; it would directly contribute to performance, visibility, and career progression.”
Ngobese is targeting partners that fit his world: local Gauteng businesses, sports equipment and apparel brands, nutrition and supplement companies, and health/recovery services.
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In return he’s offering more than logo placement. “I offer authentic brand representation, community connection, and performance-driven visibility.
“MMA represents discipline, resilience, strength, and consistency. Any brand partnered with me is naturally aligned with these values. I don’t just wear a logo; I represent it with pride, professionalism, and purpose.
“Supporting a local athlete creates a strong community-driven marketing story.”
Even based in Durban, he’s building recognition in Johannesburg. “Most people from Johannesburg know who I am now. It will be easier to get sponsorship and focus more on my career.”
As he prepares for his next fight, he plans to secure his next professional bout and achieve a decisive victory that reflects his growth, discipline, and dedication. “This is a pivotal stage, where strategic backing can help transform potential into consistent victories.”
Local businesses or brands interested in partnering with a determined, submission-specialist, rising star can reach out via Silverback MMA or directly with Ngobese. The opportunity is here. Help fuel the dream, and share in the wins.
Interested parties can contact Ngobese on 067 295 7197 and Ngobesem72@gmail.com.
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