Kabesa’s legacy on the line at EFC 120
The excitement builds for EFC 120, as two remarkable athletes prepare to fight for the lightweight title.
The stage is set for a thrilling night of mixed martial arts at EFC 120 at the World Sports Betting EFC Arena in Paulshof on December 12.
Arguably Africa’s most decorated wrestler, Igeu Kabesa, will put his lightweight championship on the line against former champion and fellow Congolese contender Tshilumbu Mikixi.
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With an impressive record of 21 professional bouts, including 13 title fights, Kabesa has carved a niche as a legendary figure in the promotion, surpassing even current UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus du Plessis in terms of victories and titles within the hexagon.
His first-round finishing ability has endeared him to fans globally, solidifying his status as one of the continent’s greatest fighters.
Mikixi, known as ‘The Old Monkey,’ is back with a vengeance, determined to reclaim the title he never lost. Having vacated the championship for personal reasons, Mikixi carries an undefeated record that showcases his exceptional skill set and fight IQ.
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The upcoming EFC 120 marks almost two years since his last title defence, where he dominated the skilled Cole Henning to capture the belt during the iconic EFC 100 event. Now, with a rejuvenated training regime and a fierce determination to regain his throne, Mikixi faces the monumental challenge of dethroning Kabesa.
Beyond the high-stakes lightweight title bout, EFC 120 will also feature a noteworthy featherweight showdown between Roedie Roets and Ayanda Zwane. Roets, a prominent cast member from the latest season of UFC’s The Ultimate Fighter and a product of Olympic wrestling coaching under Valentina Shevchenko, is riding a remarkable five-fight winning streak.
With his grappling skills and relentless submission game, he has emerged as a serious title contender in the featherweight division, eager to seize the opportunity to fulfill Dana White’s prediction of greatness.
Challenging him is Ayanda Zwane, a dynamic fighter with an Olympic pedigree under acclaimed coach Atilla Barna. Zwane’s slippery jiu-jitsu and precise striking make him a dangerous opponent, ready to capitalise on every opportunity.
His recent victories, including a notable win over international veteran Steven Goncalves, illustrate that he thrives in high-pressure moments. With the withdrawal of former number one contender Simbarashe Hokonya, Zwane’s chance to secure the featherweight title has never been more golden, setting the stage for a fight no one will want to miss.
“As EFC continues to release an exciting array of matchups, including Roets vs Zwane as the main event for EFC 118 on October 10, fight fans can expect an electrifying lineup leading into 2024. Anticipation is building, and with the best talent in global mixed martial arts on display, EFC promises that this holiday season will usher in the greatest era yet in its storied 15-year history,” added EFC media.
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