Kenyan Fighters Headline East Africa's Premier 2026 MMA Event in Nairobi

East Africa’s premier mixed martial arts promotion, ANZA MMA, returns for its 2026 season with Fight Night 006, taking place on Thursday, 26 February 2026, at The Alchemist in Nairobi.

Following a highly successful campaign last year, ANZA MMA continues its mission to develop elite talent and elevate the sport across the continent.

The event will feature a stacked amateur fight card showcasing rising stars from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Headlining the night is Kenya’s flyweight standout Norman Mondo of One Tribe BJJ. Coming off two consecutive submission victories, Mondo has built a reputation as one of the region’s most dangerous young grapplers, known for his relentless pace and submission-focused style.

He will face Uganda’s Paul Angalla, representing Uganda Prison Guards, a team recognised for producing tough, disciplined competitors. With national pride and momentum on the line, this flyweight clash promises a high-intensity battle.

The co-main event features Uganda’s Rymond Wandendeya, who enters the bout with two dominant finishes, one by ground-and-pound and another via D’Arce choke.

His well-rounded skill set will be tested against Magloire Kayembe from the Democratic Republic of Congo, representing Elite Training Centre in Lubumbashi.

Kayembe trains under respected coach Yadad Moser, whose athletes have competed on major international platforms, including Dana White's Contender Series.

Kayembe brings an unbeaten 2–0 record and strong momentum from his performance at Impact Championship in Zambia in 2025.

Tanzania’s Isack Ibrahim, a decorated Muay Thai striker with international experience, continues his transition into full mixed martial arts competition.

Known for his striking pedigree and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu background, Ibrahim aims to showcase his complete MMA skill set.

He will meet Jeanpy Michaelipes of Elite Training Centre, a well-rounded martial artist and black belt in Karate. The matchup sets up a dynamic stylistic battle between elite striking and traditional martial arts foundations within modern MMA.

Meanwhile, the event will also welcome former UFC Light Heavyweight title challenger and Strikeforce Champion Renato Sobral, who will be in Nairobi as a special guest for the grand opening of Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy’s new facility at New Muthaiga Mall from 28 February to 1 March.

ANZA MMA Founder Peng Chen expressed pride in the promotion’s continued growth: “Our focus has always been on creating meaningful opportunities for martial artists and raising the standard of competition across the region. Season Two reflects the rapid growth of the sport and the exceptional talent emerging from East Africa.”

Season Two of ANZA MMA reinforces the promotion’s role as a proving ground for the next generation of African fighters.

With athletes representing Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and the DRC, ANZA MMA continues to build a true East African platform for competitive development and international exposure.