African Fighting Championship (AFC): Aiming to Transform Abuja into Africa’s Mixed Martial Arts Capital

The African Fighting Championship (AFC) is making waves, committed to position Nigeria on the global map for the sport of MMA.

Co-founders Raad Aswani and George Oladipupo Younes have set a powerful vision to turn Nigeria’s capital into Africa’s premier destination for Mixed Martial Arts, an ambition brought to life on Saturday, October 26th, at the Velodrome, National Stadium, Abuja, during the AFC 001 event.

This highly anticipated night, organized by Aswani and Younes, wasn’t just another event; it was the launch of MMA movement for the continent. Sanctioned by Nigerian Mixed Martial Arts Federation (NMMAF), in the presence of its President Ambassador Henry George, the event signified a landmark moment for the sport in Nigeria. “The AFC represents the future of MMA in Nigeria, and we’re thrilled to support this journey,” said George, highlighting the relationship with the Federation and its dedication to working together closely to elevate MMA in Nigeria.

AFC 001 drew an electrifying crowd as over 20 fighters competed in 11 intense bouts, showcasing raw talent, skill, and passion. Fighters from across Africa, including Nigeria’s own Jeb Philemon and Believe Ohaioe, Cameroon’s Ayinde Octave, and Burkina Faso’s Abdul Razak, brought their all to the cage. These athletes symbolized the AFC’s mission to unite African fighters under one banner, inspiring the next generation of MMA enthusiasts.

Honored guests like Ambassador Mary Onyali, representing former Sports Minister Hon. Sunday Dare, witnessed the action firsthand, later expressing her amazement at the AFC’s high-energy production and the athletes’ intensity in the cage. “I was completely captivated by the event,” Onyali said, highlighting her excitement about the future of MMA in Nigeria.

For Aswani and Younes, this event marked the realization of a long-held dream. “We’ve always believed that Africa has the talent and drive to produce world-class fighters,” said Younes. AFC 001 delivered on that belief, showing fans and fighters alike the potential of MMA in Africa.

Inaugurating this thrilling new era, the AFC’s founders have committed to establishing a lasting presence in Abuja, uniting Africa’s MMA talent in a series of events designed to elevate the sport across the continent. As the AFC grows, it will continue to bring top fighters, high-level production, and an unmatched energy to its events—establishing Abuja as the heart of African MMA.