AKO7 DELIVERS UNRELENTING FURY & UNFORGETTABLE SHOWDOWN IN LAGOS
The African Knockout Championship (AKO7), held on Sunday, December 29, 2024, has once again set the stage ablaze, reaffirming its status as the ultimate Pan-African Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Championship. Fighters from across the continent—Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Morocco, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and Cameroon—descended upon Lagos, transforming the city into the pulsating heart of African combat sports.
The Landmark Event Center was packed to capacity, hosting a sold-out crowd of passionate fans filling every corner. The venue buzzed with energy as AKO7 showcased a breathtaking array of matchups across various weight classes, including bantamweight, heavyweight, light heavyweight, women’s catch weight, middleweight, and featherweight. Fans were treated to a night filled with heart-stopping action, jaw-dropping athleticism, and unforgettable showdowns that left spectators on the edge of their seats!
In the electrifying main event, Nigeria’s own Daniel Emeka, known as “Big Shark,” unleashed a tidal wave of skill and power, overpowering Segun Ogunnoiki with a decisive Unanimous Decision. Emeka now advances to the AKO Championship finals, where he will vie for the Inaugural AKO Middleweight title in 2025. The excitement didn’t stop there! Nigeria’s Jibrin Baba delivered a stunning performance, defeating Burkina Faso’s Abdulrazac Sankara to secure his spot in the finals for the Inaugural AKO Lightweight title in 2025.
Cameroon’s Isaac Muluh claimed the Knockout of the Night title with a spectacular overhand right that landed flush on the jaw of Nigeria’s Richard Muzaan, ending the fight in just 1.32 seconds of the first round. Known for his laser focus, Muluh showcased incredible precision and restraint, setting up the decisive strike with patience and intent. His ability to double up on his punches and maintain control highlighted his exceptional skill, earning him well-deserved accolades and leaving the crowd in awe.
Senegal’s Gasmire Diatta, living up to his moniker “Killa,” claimed the Performance of the Night title with a dominant TKO victory over Cameroon’s Oteh Stanick in just 4.15 seconds of the first round. Diatta’s precise strikes, including a devastating seven-hit combo and punishing body shots, showcased his superior control and skill, leaving Stanick unable to recover, while Morocco’s Mandar Sanaa continued her unbeaten streak, outclassing Cameroon’s Marie Mengue in the women’s bantamweight bout.
Nigeria’s Joy Obala also shone brightly, dominating Terlumun Doose and clinching victory in a rapid 4.46 seconds of the second round. The heavyweight clash was nothing short of legendary, with Senegal’s Abdoulaye Kane submitting Kassoum Kone via RNC in just 1.17 seconds of the second round, leaving fans in awe!
Adding to the star-studded atmosphere, First African-born UFC Champion and AKO Co-founder, Kamaru Usman made a triumphant return to Nigeria, engaging with fans and fighters alike. “We’re doing our very best to grow this sport all across Africa, not just Nigeria. We want to give these men and women the opportunity to change their lives and get to that next level. Thank you to everyone who came out to support—your presence means everything.” Usman said, reflecting on the Championship’s mission after the event. His presence electrified the event, underscoring the commitment to elevate African talent on the global stage.
From the opening bell to the final whistle, AKO7 delivered a mesmerizing blend of drama, strategy, and showmanship, solidifying its reputation as Africa’s premier combat sports Championship. With its pan-African reach and fierce rivalries, AKO continues to captivate fans across the continent, showcasing the incredible talent of African martial artists.
The event was a dazzling spectacle attended by VIPs & celebrities including Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, Adekunle Gold, Brodashaggi, Baba Rex, Neduwazobia, and Phyno, who all came to witness the thrilling action.
As the road to the Championship finals heats up, AKO promises even more explosive action and unforgettable stories. Stay tuned for what’s next in this exhilarating journey!
AKO7 was proudly sponsored by premier sponsors Moniepoint – 2024 Season Gold Sponsor, Ace Global Depository – Gold Sponsor, Fearless, National Lottery Trust Fund and Green Hill capital.
