Female MMA fighter from Kyalami to hit the cage

With Women’s Month just days away, Kyalami resident Shana Power is set to make her big return to Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) professional fighting after recovering from multiple pulmonary embolisms.

“I’m really excited to get back in the ring and right now I’m just focusing on my training and diet to make sure I drop the weight safely,” said the 26-year-old.

“The support from my family, my wife, mom and sister, as well as my fellow trainers, Garreth and Ruzanne, has been amazing and they keep me motivated.”

Known in the ring as Titanium, Power will be fighting in the Extreme Fighting Championship 72 at Grand West Casino, Cape Town on 11 August. She will be facing Paulwetu ‘Power’ Namba in the women’s flyweight division, the only female fight of the competition.

Power made her boxing debut in 2013 and then transitioned into MMA, making history as the first South African female MMA fighter to beat two international opponents and win two fights in a row. “This will be the fourth professional fight of my career, as my last was in December 2016.”

Despite her success as a fighter, Power is also passionate about sharing her love for the sport with younger athletes and other women. This inspired her to open her own gym, PHiT, in Kyalami where she trains other athletes in various disciplines including Brazilian jiu-jitsu. “I’ve realised that success in life is not only about your own achievements, but also empowering others to reach their goals and dreams.”

Power balances her schedule as a business owner, coach, athlete and Nike ambassador, which can be difficult but she has never been one to back down from a challenge.

“Nothing in life is certain and I am grateful for every day that I am able to train and enjoy the sport that I love. I’m looking forward to returning to the cage and seeing what this next step in my journey will bring.”

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