2025 was another explosive year for MMA in Nigeria. From global champions to breakthrough international medalists and rising regional talents, African fighters are carving their names into MMA history with guts, grit, and championship-level performances. On this note, Afrocombat presents our ranking of the Top 5 African MMA warriors who lit up the MMA scene in 2025
Benjamin Edozie
Benjamin Edozie might not yet be fighting on the biggest professional stages like the UFC, but his 2025 breakthrough carries over into 2026 with real momentum. The Nigerian fighter made history at the International MMA World Championships in Tbilisi, where he earned a silver medal, defeating multiple international opponents and putting Nigeria firmly on the global MMA map the first Nigerian ever to do so.
At just 24, Edozie is still in his amateur prime with a strong 13–2 record, and his performance is a statement of future potential. He’s ranked high among amateur lightweights and continues to grow confidence and skill that could push him into the pro spotlight soon.
A star in the making, expect Edozie to translate this international medal success into pro opportunities and possibly major regional titles.
Josias Musasa
“The K.O. Wizard” is living up to his nickname with ferocious power and highlight finishes. The Bantamweight from DR Congo has shown he can bang with tough competition, though 2025 brought setbacks, two losses at UFC Fight Night card to Carlos Vera and Colby Thicknesse, but this only promises to sharpen his hunger in 2026.
Musaswa’s fight IQ and pace make him exciting, and his ability to score early finishes makes him a highlight-fighter fans want to see more of. A few key adjustments could turn close fights into breakout wins this coming year. Still climbing. Musasa has the tools and power to turn this into a breakout year.
Kennedy Nzechukwu
No one doubts the raw power and athleticism of Nigeria’s Kennedy “American Savage” Nzechukwu. While he’s been active through 2024–2025 climbing the UFC ranks, he’s consistently delivered highlight finishes, notably first-round TKOs over Chris Barnett and Łukasz Brzeski and grabbed Performance of the Night awards in the UFC.
A recent split draw and a heel hook submission win show he’s rounding out his game, and his transition to Heavyweight adds even more punch to his threat level. Nzechukwu doesn’t just hit hard he finishes fights in exciting fashion, which keeps him on the radar in one of the most stacked divisions in MMA.
Dricus Du Plessis
Dricus “Stillknocks” Du Plessis has been one of Africa’s most dominant MMA athletes, and his 2025 run only reinforces that. He defended the UFC Middleweight Championship in February 2025, beating Sean Strickland by unanimous decision, capping another impressive title defence streak.
Although he lost the title to Khamzat Chimaev in August 2025, Du Plessis still had one of the most high-profile years among Afrocombat fighters and remains a top contender globally. His mix of striking and submission ability keeps him dangerous at every turn, and he continues to represent African MMA on the world’s biggest stage.
Du Plessis is hungry to reclaim his belt. A rematch or high-stakes contender fight could crown him again, and he’s one of the most respected and technically complete African fighters today.
Nwobodo Ikechukwu
Last on this list is Nwobodo Ikechukwu, a fighter whose impact in 2025 has already turned heads and set him up to dominate in 2026. Ikechukwu exploded onto the scene with back-to-back dominant wins in African leagues, like Warrior Sport Championship (WSC) and AKO show, where he showcased elite striking, takedown and defence,
He’s the embodiment of Afrocombat’s future, and His combination of precision and aggression puts him in a prime position to leap toward UFC, PFL, or other world-class promotions soon. Ikechukwu is not just a contender, he’s a future champion in waiting.
From Edozie’s historic medal run to Ikechukwu’s breakout dominance, 2025 proved one thing: African MMA is no longer emerging, it has arrived. These fighters didn’t just compete; they set standards, carried flags, and reminded the world that the continent continues to produce elite warriors built for the biggest stages.
Stay locked in with Afrocombat for fight breakdowns, exclusive interviews, and all the latest updates on Africa’s finest MMA talents. Follow, share, and join the movement.
