The Professional Fighters League, PFL Africa’s debut is off with an electrifying show as Nigeria’s undefeated MMA sensation Juliet Ukah and South Africa’s fierce Ceileigh Niedermayr set the stage during an open workout at Champions Academy RDC Gym in Kinshasa, Congo.
The high-energy showdown has offered fans and media a preview of their upcoming Showcase Women’s Strawweight Bout, set to headline the inaugural PFL Africa event on July 19 at the Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town, South Africa.
Ukah and Niedermayr both showed off their skills during the public training as anticipation for PFL Africa’s debut builds.
Speaking with the press after the open workout, Ukah expressed her excitement to compete at the first PFL Africa.
She said: “I’m very happy to be on the first PFL Africa card, and my fight with Ceileigh is going to be an exciting one. We’re going to be representing the two biggest MMA nations in Africa, and we want to help put African MMA in the global spotlight. Compared to her, I think I’m the more experienced fighter and the better striker, so I’m comfortable wherever the fight goes. I expect to get the finish, but I don’t mind going to a third round if needed.”
In her address, Niedermayr said this is an opportunity for African women to show their skills on the global stage.
Niedermayr said: “It’s truly an honor to be part of the first-ever women’s fight in PFL Africa. This fight camp isn’t just about preparing for my next opponent — it’s a reflection of my lifelong dedication to martial arts. I’m always pushing myself to grow, to evolve, and to become the best fighter I can be.”
Pan-Atlantic Kompass reports that the historic PFL Cape Town event will kick off the 2025 PFL Africa Tournament, featuring first-round matchups in the Heavyweight and Bantamweight divisions.
The PFL is a global powerhouse in MMA and the fastest-growing sports league worldwide. PFL is the only MMA organization with the “win and advance” tournament format.
PFL has three fight products: PFL World Tournament, PFL Champions Series, and PFL International Leagues. PFL is broadcast and streamed live to 190 countries with 20 leading media partners.
