PFL Africa launches in SA with action-packed Carnival City showdown
Johannesburg fans were treated to an unforgettable night of MMA as PFL Africa’s first round crowned semifinalists and set the stage for the upcoming finals.
A packed Big Top Arena at Carnival City witnessed an electrifying night of mixed martial arts on August 9 as eight fighters punched their tickets to the Professional Fighters League (PFL) Africa Semifinals.
The African debut of the PFL showcased the continent’s best Featherweights and Welterweights, delivering explosive finishes that thrilled the Johannesburg crowd.
In the main event, Patrick Ocheme (7-1) overcame a slow start to defeat Mohamed Camara (5-3-1) by unanimous decision, securing his place in the Featherweight Semifinals. After dropping Camara with a big shot in the second round, Ocheme controlled the final round to clinch victory.
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He credited his determination to the support of South Africa’s Springbok rugby captain Siya Kolisi, who was present cage-side.
“It played such a big part in a positive way for me. Seeing guys like that, doing so well and being so well respected, making the time to come and enjoy the show like this is truly inspiring,” said Ocheme.
The co-main event lasted just 34 seconds as Shido Boris Esperanca (10-1) submitted Ibrahima Mané (13-6) with a rear-naked choke to secure his spot in the Welterweight Semifinals. Esperanca wasted no time, immediately taking Mané’s back after the bell and forcing the tap.
“I see myself as an ambassador for PFL Africa and for MMA across the continent. I want to support African fighters and help younger athletes grow. PFL Africa is huge and I can see myself being part of it for many years,” he shared.
Other Welterweight action included Octave Ayinda (6-0) claiming a first-round TKO over British Boloyoang (3-2).
After escaping an early guillotine choke attempt, Ayinda dominated on the ground, forcing a referee stoppage at 1:55 of round one.
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Yabna N’tchala (12-2-1) showcased striking and grappling prowess, outworking Sanon Sadeck (7-3) across three rounds to earn a unanimous decision win and advance to the Welterweight Semifinals.
With these results, the PFL Africa Featherweight Finals will see Patrick Ocheme face Abdoul Razac Sankara, while Wasi Adeshina meets Dwight Joseph.
In the Welterweight Finals, Shido Boris Esperanca will take on Octave Ayinda, with Yabna N’tchala facing Emilios Dassi.
PFL Africa GM Elias Schulze described the night as “electric” and “aspirational,” praising the fighters’ heart and soul. “From the first fight to the very end, you saw heart and soul that even globally is rare.
“That’s what I’m hearing from friends and family around the world – tonight we saw the heart of the fighter come out,” Schulze said.
PFL Africa first round results — Johannesburg:
Patrick Ocheme (7-1) defeated Mohamed Camara (5-3-1) via unanimous decision (30-27 x2, 29-28).
Shido Boris Esperanca (10-1) submitted Ibrahima Mané (13-6) with a rear-naked choke at 0:34 of round one.
Octave Ayinda (6-0) defeated British Boloyoang (3-2) by TKO at 1:55 of round one.
Yabna N’tchala (12-2-1) defeated Sanon Sadeck (7-3) via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x2).
Emilios Dassi (5-1) knocked out Osvaldo Benedito (3-2) with punches at 2:12 of round one.
Wasi Adeshina (8-3) submitted Jean Jacques Lubaya (9-2) with a rear-naked choke at 3:14 of round two.
Dwight Joseph (15-2) knocked out Wilker Nsamo (7-1) with a knee at 4:57 of round two.
Abderahman Errachidy (5-1) won by TKO (knee) at 0:14 of round two against Elbert Steyn (3-1).
Abdoul Razac Sankara (7-3) knocked out Shadrack Yemba (4-1) with a head kick at 2:01 of round one.
Kunle Lawal (3-1) defeated Desmond Tamungang (5-1) via unanimous decision (29-28 x3).
