The seventh edition of the African Knockout Championship (AKO7), held on December 29, 2024, at the Landmark Event Center in Lagos, Nigeria, emphatically solidified its position as the continent’s premier Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) platform. The event drew a capacity crowd, transforming Lagos into the epicenter of African combat sports for a night of electrifying battles and inspiring performances. Fighters from diverse nations, including Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Morocco, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and Cameroon, showcased their skills and determination, captivating the audience with their athleticism and unwavering fighting spirit. The energy within the venue was palpable, reflecting the growing popularity and excitement surrounding MMA across Africa.
AKO7 delivered a diverse fight card, featuring matchups across various weight categories, ranging from bantamweight to heavyweight, with both male and female athletes competing. This diverse showcase provided a platform for a wider range of martial arts talent, illustrating the depth and breadth of combat skills across the continent. Each bout was a testament to the dedication, discipline, and resilience of these exceptional athletes. The night was filled with spectacular knockouts, strategic submissions, and inspiring displays of resilience, providing a thrilling spectacle for the enthusiastic crowd.
The main event saw Nigerian fighter Daniel “Big Shark” Emeka triumph over compatriot Segun Ogunnoiki by unanimous decision, securing his place in the 2025 AKO Middleweight Championship finals. This victory marked a significant step in Emeka’s career and further solidified his position as a rising star in the African MMA scene. In another key matchup, Jibrin Baba, also of Nigeria, defeated Burkina Faso’s Abdulrazac Sankara, earning his spot in the finals for the inaugural AKO Lightweight title in 2025. These victories highlighted the growing strength of Nigerian fighters within the AKO competition.
Several fighters delivered standout performances that resonated with the crowd. Cameroon’s Isaac Muluh earned the Knockout of the Night accolade with a devastating first-round overhand right that felled Richard Muzaan of Nigeria in a mere 1.32 seconds. Muluh’s precision and power were evident in the swift and decisive finish. Senegal’s Gasmire “Killa” Diatta lived up to his nickname, securing the Performance of the Night with a dominant TKO victory over Cameroon’s Oteh Stanick in just 4.15 seconds of the first round. Diatta’s unrelenting attack, featuring a seven-hit combo and powerful body shots, showcased his superior technique and control.
The women’s division also witnessed impressive performances. Morocco’s Mandar Sanaa extended her unbeaten streak, outclassing Cameroon’s Marie Mengue in a bantamweight bout. This victory further cemented Sanaa’s position as a dominant force in African women’s MMA. Nigeria’s Joy Obala also delivered a commanding performance, defeating Terlumun Doose in the second round with a time of 4.46 seconds. These victories showcased the growing strength and talent within the women’s MMA scene, demonstrating the increasing diversity and competitiveness of the sport across the continent.
The presence of Kamaru Usman, the first African-born UFC champion and AKO co-founder, further elevated the event’s significance. Usman’s return to Nigeria highlighted the championship’s commitment to nurturing African talent and providing a platform for athletes to achieve international recognition. His interaction with fans and fighters underscored the inspirational impact of his success, motivating the next generation of African MMA stars. Usman reiterated the organization’s mission to expand the sport’s reach across the continent, creating opportunities for aspiring athletes to transform their lives through MMA.
AKO7’s success transcended the sporting arena, attracting a diverse audience that included government officials, celebrities, and influential figures. The presence of dignitaries such as the Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, along with celebrities like Adekunle Gold, Brodashaggi, Baba Rex, Neduwazobia, and Phyno, demonstrated the growing mainstream recognition and appeal of MMA in Nigeria. This high-profile attendance further solidified the event’s position as a major cultural happening and showcased the sport’s growing influence within Nigerian society.
The event also benefited from the support of prominent sponsors, including Moniepoint, Ace Global Depository, Fearless, National Lottery Trust Fund, and Green Hill Capital. Their investment reflects the growing commercial viability of MMA in Africa, which is crucial for the sport’s continued development and expansion. This financial backing allows AKO to provide a high-quality platform for athletes to showcase their talents while also contributing to the overall growth of the MMA ecosystem.
AKO7 not only delivered spectacular fights and showcased rising stars but also provided a platform for emerging African talent to gain international exposure. The event’s success underscores the growing popularity of MMA across the continent, with AKO playing a pivotal role in developing and promoting the sport. The championship’s commitment to nurturing African talent and providing opportunities for athletes to compete on a global stage positions it as a driving force behind the future of African MMA.
As AKO looks ahead to the championship finals in 2025, the excitement and anticipation continue to build. With the rising talent pool and growing fan base, AKO is poised to become a major force in the global MMA landscape. The championship’s commitment to providing a platform for African fighters to showcase their skills and achieve their dreams ensures that the future of African MMA is bright. AKO is not just a fighting championship; it’s a movement that empowers athletes, inspires communities, and contributes to the growth and development of a vibrant and dynamic sport across the continent. The journey continues, and the world awaits the next chapter in the AKO saga.
