The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is poised to make a significant global footprint expansion, setting its sights on the African continent. With their debut event in Cape Town, South Africa, just around the corner, the league has finalized the complete fight lineup and critical broadcast details, ensuring fans worldwide know where to tune in for this historic night of mixed martial arts.
Scheduled to unfold at the Grand Arena within GrandWest in Cape Town, this event represents a strategic move by the PFL to tap into Africa`s rich pool of athletic talent and passionate fanbase. It’s more than just another fight card; it`s a statement of intent regarding the league’s international ambitions.
Headlining Acts and Star Power
The main portion of the event, interestingly positioned as part of the `Road to Dubai` series, features a collection of high-profile bouts. Topping the bill is the reigning PFL Middleweight Champion, Johnny Eblen. Known for his dominant wrestling and ever-improving striking, Eblen faces a stern test in Costello van Steenis, a durable and experienced opponent looking to make his mark against the division`s best.
The co-main event showcases one of the PFL`s brightest rising stars, Dakota Ditcheva. The undefeated flyweight sensation, who has steamrolled her competition with clinical striking, takes on Sumiko Inaba. This matchup pits two dynamic strikers against each other and promises fireworks.
Adding further intrigue, the card features two prominent figures recently integrated from the Bellator acquisition: former champions A.J. McKee and Corey Anderson. McKee, returning to his native featherweight division, faces the tough Akhmed Magomedov. Meanwhile, the light heavyweight standout Anderson makes a surprising move up to the heavyweight ranks to challenge Denis Goltsov, a formidable opponent who recently claimed a tournament title. It’s always fascinating when established stars step outside their typical parameters, and these matchups deliver exactly that.
Rounding out the main card is a lightweight clash between Artur Zaynukov and Takeshi Izumi.
Broadcast Information
For viewers in the United States, the main card of the PFL Africa event will be broadcast exclusively on ESPN+. Fans should mark their calendars for a 2 p.m. ET start time.
Prior to the main event action, a substantial preliminary card featuring nine bouts will take place. These fights, often showcasing up-and-coming talent and regional prospects, will be available for streaming on the official PFL App starting at 10 a.m. ET.
Full Event Lineup
Here is the complete list of scheduled bouts for PFL Africa in Cape Town:
Main Card (ESPN+ at 2 p.m. ET)
- Johnny Eblen vs. Costello van Steenis
- Dakota Ditcheva vs. Sumiko Inaba
- AJ McKee vs. Akhmed Magomedov
- Artur Zaynukov vs. Takeshi Izumi
- Corey Anderson vs. Denis Goltsov
Preliminary Card (PFL App at 10 a.m. ET)
- Nkosi Ndebele vs. Mahmoud Atef
- Maxwell Djantou Nana vs. Mickael Groguhe
- Shannon Van Tonder vs. Boule Godogo
- Jashell Ticha Awa vs. Justin Clarke
- Antero dos Santos vs. Karim Henniene
- Abdoulaye Kane vs. Joffie Houlton
- Simbarashe Hokonya vs. Frans Mlambo
- Abraham Bably vs. Badr Medkouri
- Juliet Ukah vs. Ceileigh Niedermayr
The PFL`s arrival in Africa signals a new chapter for both the league and the continent`s burgeoning MMA scene. With a blend of international stars and local fighters, the Cape Town event is set to be a landmark occasion.
