UFC Africa: The Event That Never Happened

For years, the idea of a UFC event in Africa has been a dream for both the promotion and fans of mixed martial arts. Given the continent’s rich fighting history and its growing influence in combat sports, many expected the UFC to make its way to Africa, especially during the reign of the so-called “Three Kings”—Kamaru Usman, Israel Adesanya, and Francis Ngannou.

However, despite these champions making history as the first three African-born UFC titleholders, the event never materialised. Now, with South Africa’s Dricus Du Plessis becoming the new middleweight champion, the dream of UFC Africa may finally become a reality.

The Three Kings Era: A Golden Opportunity Missed

1. Kamaru Usman – The Nigerian Nightmare

Kamaru Usman was the first of the three to claim UFC gold, winning the welterweight title in March 2019 by defeating Tyron Woodley. His dominant wrestling and striking ability made him one of the most successful champions in UFC history. At one point, he was even ranked as the #1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world.

Usman often spoke about bringing the UFC to Africa, calling it a “full circle” moment for his career. He envisioned a massive stadium event in Nigeria, where he could defend his title on home soil. Unfortunately, logistical challenges and the UFC’s focus on other markets meant this never happened.

2. Israel Adesanya – The Last Stylebender

Born in Nigeria but raised in New Zealand, Israel Adesanya became the middleweight champion in 2019 and quickly became one of the most popular fighters in the UFC. His flashy striking and charisma made him a global superstar, and he too expressed interest in a UFC event in Africa.

Adesanya frequently referenced his African roots, even wearing traditional attire before fights. He was a key figure in the push for UFC Africa, and given his popularity, it seemed like a natural move for the UFC. However, despite multiple title defences and his influence, the event never happened.

3. Francis Ngannou – The Predator

Hailing from Cameroon, Francis Ngannou had one of the most inspiring journeys in MMA history. From struggling in poverty to becoming UFC heavyweight champion in 2021, his rise was legendary. Ngannou was arguably the most powerful puncher in MMA, and his story made him an icon for African fighters.

He was vocal about UFC Africa and even proposed Yaoundé, Cameroon, as a potential location. With his title win, the possibility of the UFC hosting a historic event in Africa seemed closer than ever. However, his contract dispute with the UFC and eventual departure to PFL ended any hopes of him headlining a UFC card in Africa.

Why Didn’t UFC Africa Happen During the Three Kings Era?

Despite having three African-born champions at the same time, UFC Africa never came to fruition. Several factors contributed to this:

1. Logistical Challenges – The UFC would need a massive venue with world-class facilities, which were limited in some African countries.
2. Broadcasting & Infrastructure – The UFC’s pay-per-view model relies heavily on North American and European markets, making time zone differences a challenge.
3. COVID-19 Pandemic – Between 2020 and 2022, the global pandemic disrupted travel, scheduling, and event planning.
4. Market Priorities – The UFC focused on expanding into Abu Dhabi, China, and Europe, delaying an African event.
5. Ngannou’s Departure – Losing their heavyweight champion made the UFC less inclined to push for an African event at the time.

The Dricus Du Plessis Era: A Second Chance for UFC Africa

Fast forward to 2024, and Africa has a new UFC champion—Dricus Du Plessis of South Africa. The middleweight fighter shocked the world by defeating Sean Strickland at UFC 297 to claim the belt, making history as the first South African UFC champion.

Unlike the previous African champions, Du Plessis is based in South Africa and has actively trained there throughout his career. This gives the UFC a new opportunity to finally make UFC Africa a reality.

Why UFC Africa is More Likely Now

1. South Africa Has the Infrastructure
   • Unlike Nigeria or Cameroon, South Africa already hosts major international sports events, including rugby and football.
   • The country has world-class arenas, such as FNB Stadium (94,000 capacity) and Sun Arena (8,500 capacity).
2. Du Plessis is Pushing for It
   • He has stated multiple times that he wants to defend his title in South Africa.
   • UFC President Dana White has shown interest in bringing an event to Africa, especially with a South African champion leading the charge.
3. The UFC’s Global Expansion Strategy
   • The UFC has held events in China, Abu Dhabi, Brazil, and Australia to build international markets.
   • Africa remains an untapped market, and with MMA’s growing popularity on the continent, a UFC event could boost the sport’s presence in Africa.

Where Could UFC Africa Take Place?

If the UFC finally commits to an event in Africa, South Africa is the most likely destination. Potential venues include:

1. FNB Stadium (Johannesburg) – The largest stadium in Africa (94,000 seats)
2. Cape Town Stadium (Cape Town) – Hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup (55,000 seats)
3. Sun Arena (Pretoria) – An Indoor venue suited for UFC events

Possible Main Event: Du Plessis vs. … ?

A UFC Africa event would need a headline fight, and the best option could be a blockbuster matchup between Dricus Du Plessis and Alex Pereira, Magomed Ankalaev or Nassourdine Imavov.

It would’ve been amazing to have Du Plessis face Israel Adesanya in Africa after the back and forth they had about Du Plessis comments about him being the only true African champion but that ship has sailed and it would be ideal for Khamzat Chimaev to face Du Plessis but it’s not realistic as they’re going to fight next. So Imavov or the Light Heavyweight champion at the time if Du Plessis can defend his belt a few more times, will be an ideal event for UFC Africa.

Conclusion: We Can Only Hope

While the Three Kings Era of Usman, Adesanya, and Ngannou saw unprecedented success for African MMA, UFC Africa never materialised. Now, with Dricus Du Plessis leading a new generation, the dream may finally become a reality.

With the right venue, the right champion, and the UFC’s growing global ambitions, the first-ever UFC event in Africa could be closer than ever—giving African MMA fans the historic night they’ve been waiting for.