Francis Ngannou Foundation Fighters Chase Glory at PFL Africa Semifinals

As the Professional Fighters League (PFL) Africa Semifinals rapidly approach, the spotlight shines intensely on the Francis Ngannou Foundation. Its stable of elite fighters is poised to carry both national pride and continental ambition into the cage. Representing Cameroon at the high-stakes event on October 18 in Kigali, Rwanda, are two of its rising stars: Emilios Dassi and Emmanuel Mukam, all under the watchful eye of PFL Africa Chairman, Francis Ngannou himself.

Dassi: The Finisher’s Determination

Competing in the welterweight division, Emilios Dassi, known as “Le Fils du Prédateur” (The Predator’s Son), is riding a wave of momentum following a dominant first-round knockout victory over Angola’s Osvaldo Benedito in Johannesburg earlier this year. With a professional record of 5 wins and 1 loss all five victories coming by knockout Dassi has established himself as one of the most electrifying finishers on the African MMA circuit.

“I am ready to defeat my opponent and move to the finals,” Dassi told Folie Sportive Camerounaise. “I am preparing for a three-round war, but the moment I sense a slight opportunity, I will seize it and knock him down.”

Dassi’s next challenge is Benin’s Yabna N’Tchalá, a seasoned competitor known for his explosive counter-striking and formidable grappling. Their semifinal clash promises fireworks, pitting two aggressive styles and high finishing instincts against each other.

 Mukam: The Unbeaten Heavyweight’s Moment

In the heavyweight category, Emmanuel Mukam  embodies resilience and an undeniable hunger for success. A late addition to the semifinal card, Mukam readily seized the opportunity to step in on short notice a characteristic his coach insists is the hallmark of a true fighter.

“I feel very comfortable and grateful for the opportunity to fight at PFL Africa,” said Mukam. “I have waited for this for a long time, and now it’s my moment to show everyone what I am capable of.”

The 26-year-old boasts a perfect 2-0 professional record, with both victories secured via first-round technical knockout. His raw power and precision have quickly made him a prospect to watch, and a win in Kigali could catapult him into the regional heavyweight spotlight.

“It’s Africa’s Time”

At the heart of their preparation is a focused coaching team driving a vision larger than just results. Coach Paul Biyong believes his fighters’ success is crucial to inspiring a new generation of African mixed martial artists.

“All is well; they are doing what is necessary to prove they deserve to be at this level,” Biyong said. “PFL Africa is not only for Cameroonians but for all Africans. There are countless talented fighters across the continent wishing to perform on this stage, and our athletes are working hard to open doors for others.”

Regarding Mukam, Coach Biyong’s message is clear: opportunity must be met with immediate readiness. “Mukam came in on short notice. His opponent needed a match, and when we were informed, we immediately grabbed the opportunity. The takeaway for every youth is to make use of any chance given.”

The Stakes in Kigali

The PFL Africa Semifinals mark a pivotal and highly anticipated chapter for the continent’s MMA movement. Held at the state-of-the-art BK Arena in Kigali, the event gathers top contenders from across Africa, with the winners advancing to the championship finals later this year.

Under Francis Ngannou’s leadership, PFL Africa has rapidly become a beacon for fighters across the continent, providing professional pathways and international exposure that were once out of reach. For Dassi and Mukam, the mission extends beyond the octagon: it’s about proving that Cameroonian fighters can thrive on the grandest of African stages. 

A Broader Vision

Francis Ngannou, a global MMA icon and former UFC heavyweight champion, established his foundation with the explicit goal of giving back to the sport and the continent that shaped him. Through his initiative, dozens of young athletes now have access to elite training, quality equipment, and essential mentorship resources previously unavailable in Central Africa.

The fighters’ performances in Kigali serve as a critical validation of that vision. If Dassi secures another crushing knockout and Mukam continues his unbeaten, powerful streak, both men will move one step closer to becoming champions and take a giant leap toward fulfilling Ngannou’s dream of “an Africa that fights back.”