HISTORIC FACE-OFF: Juliet Ukah vs. Ceileigh Niedermayr Set to Ignite PFL Africa Debut in Cape Town
KINSHASA, CONGO – June 25, 2025 – The Professional Fighters League (PFL) is igniting a new chapter in African combat sports as it held its first open workout for PFL Africa, ahead of its inaugural fight night on July 19 at the Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town, South Africa.
The energy was palpable at Champions Academy RDC Gym in Kinshasa, as fans and media witnessed Nigeria’s Juliet Ukah and South Africa’s Ceileigh Niedermayr showcase their arsenal ahead of their much-anticipated Women’s Strawweight Showcase clash.
This will mark the first-ever women’s fight in PFL Africa history — a bout both fighters say goes beyond competition and represents a movement for women in African MMA.
🔥 What They Said:
Juliet Ukah, representing Nigeria, stated confidently:
“We’re going to be representing the two biggest MMA nations in Africa. I think I’m the more experienced fighter and the better striker. I expect to get the finish, but I’m ready for three rounds if I have to.”
She added a respectful nod to her opponent: “Ceileigh, let’s bring out the best in each other and show the world how well African women can fight!”
Ceileigh Niedermayr, flying South Africa’s flag, countered with focus and fire:
“It’s an honor to be part of this historic card. This camp reflects a lifetime of dedication. Juliet is tough — but she’s never faced anyone like me.”
“I’m bringing a new level of Smiley Savagery to the SmartCage.”
💥 Fight Night Details:
📍 Location: Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town
📅 Date: Saturday, July 19, 2025
🕟 Start Time:
PFL Africa Tournament: 4:30 PM SAST / 10:30 AM EST
PFL Champions Series: 8:30 PM SAST / 2:30 PM EST
🎟️ Tickets: Ticketpro
📺 Broadcast: U.S. partner TBA — available in 190 countries.
🧠 Opinion & Analysis: A Turning Point for African MMA
This showdown between Ukah and Niedermayr is more than just fists and footwork — it’s symbolic of a rising tide for African women in MMA. With both fighters coming from proud martial arts nations, their clash is expected to be high-caliber, emotional, and potentially history-making.
In a sport still dominated globally by male fighters and Western organizations, PFL Africa offers an unfiltered spotlight for African talent to shine on a global stage. These women are setting a powerful tone for what's to come.
As MMA continues to explode in popularity across Africa, bouts like these are no longer side stories — they are the story.
💬 Fans React:
“Can’t wait to see Ukah’s striking game in the cage!”
“Ceileigh’s mental focus is unmatched. This is going to be a banger.”
“Women’s MMA in Africa is finally getting the platform it deserves. Let’s go!”
📲 Follow the journey:
PFLmma.com | Instagram: @PFLmma | Twitter: @PFLMMA | Facebook: /PFLmma
👊 AFRICA. IT’S TIME TO FIGHT.
