Khayelitsha's Fikile Mbane gets his hand raised after beating Umir Abrahams via unanimous decision in their Men's Catchweight (63kg) bout on Saturday. Photo: Michael Attfield Barebones MC
Barebones Mixed Martial Arts Championship once again delivered on its promise of showcasing Africa's next generation of amateur mixed martial arts talent at BMC9 on Saturday.
Inside the Sunningdale Sports Complex in Milnerton, 38 warriors stepped into the Barebones cage and left everything on the canvas, treating a crowd of more than 200 passionate supporters to an afternoon and evening of thrilling action. Family members, teammates, coaches, friends, partners, and loyal "brasse" packed the venue, creating an electric atmosphere as they rallied behind their respective athletes and gyms.
Judging by the rapid growth of the amateur scene, South Africa's grassroots MMA movement is well on its way to eclipsing the professional ranks, at least in terms of activity and participation. With more events being staged across the country than ever before, the sport continues to break further into mainstream culture as increasing numbers of people walk through gym doors to take up one of the world's fastest-growing sports.
