The upcoming International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) Africa Championships in Angola will give Namibia’s budding fighters the platform to test their mettle on the continent, coach Carlos de Sousa says.
The six-day championships in Luanda, from 4 to 10 May, will bring together the continent’s top amateur talent for a landmark event.
Five Namibians will compete in the youth section, one of two new divisions being trialled at the African mixed martial arts showpiece event.
The highly anticipated masters division will also make its highly anticipated IMMAF debut.
Promising 20-year-old Baghdad Muundjua will do battle in the bantamweight, looking to go one better than the silver he won at the 2024 IMMAF African Championships held in Windhoek.
Similarly, Adriano Bock (18) is looking to upgrade from bronze to gold in the strawweight division.
MMA debutante Alex Ilukena (20), better known for his feats in karate circles, is pencilled in for battle in the lightweight division.
Stefan Kuhn (17) will make his African championship debut at heavyweight, with 15 year-old Waylon Beukes expected to fight at lightweight.
“We will only be sending juniors, no seniors this time. We want them to get the exposure at that level, so they can see where they are,” Sousa said recently.
Following the success of the 2024 IMMAF World Championships, where African athletes made history, this championship will continue to highlight the rising talent shaping the future of MMA.
Last year’s World Championships saw Maria Kitoko (Angola) and Kiara Fegen (South Africa) claim gold, further demonstrating the rapid development of African MMA.
The 2025 edition will aim to build on that momentum, offering the next wave of talent a global platform on which to shine.
IMMAF president Kerrith Brown said in the days leading up to the competition that the finest African amateur competitors will be on show in an environment that celebrates skill, determination and sportsmanship.
“We are delighted to be back in Angola to once again showcase the incredible growth of MMA across Africa, bringing the IMMAF pathway to the continent’s most talented athletes competing at the highest amateur level,” Brown said.
“Africa continues to be a driving force for IMMAF in the global MMA landscape, showcasing grassroots talent with spirit, dedication, resilience and sportsmanship, enabling all to test their skills, gain international recognition and take the next steps in their athletic development.
“For all athletes and those who stand behind them, this is the time to shine and compete with pride and respect.”
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