AKO 10 is shaping up to be one of the most important nights in African MMA, and at the center of it all are two men with unfinished business, Jean “The Black Panther” Do Santos and Nigeria’s own Jubril “Black Venom” Baba. With the inaugural lightweight championship on the line, this rematch is more than just a fight, it’s a battle for pride and the chance to make history.
Do Santos, fighting out of Cotonou, Benin, has been on a tear since making his professional debut in 2022. His record stands at eight wins and just one loss, a record that shows his ability to adapt in any situation. He has knocked opponents out, submitted them, and proven he can go the distance when needed. His most recent victory came at AKO 9, where he secured a slick triangle choke submission over Emmanuel Nworie, reminding everyone that he’s as dangerous on the mat as he is on his feet.
However, one of the defining moments of his rise was his close split-decision win over Baba at AKO 3. That fight gave Do Santos the edge in their rivalry, but it also left questions hanging. Baba took that loss hard, and since then, he’s fought like a man on a mission.
Jubril Baba, nicknamed “Black Venom,” is a fighter who thrives on durability and grit. With six professional wins, most of them earned by decision, he’s built his name as someone who can outlast and outwork his opponents.
While he doesn’t always chase the finish, his ability to control the pace of a fight makes him a tough puzzle for anyone in the division. After his setback against Do Santos, Baba bounced back with strong performances, including a decision win that kept him in the title picture and set the stage for this rematch.
This upcoming clash is as much about styles as it is about rivalry. Do Santos brings finishing ability and versatility. He can strike, he can grapple, and he knows how to pull away in close rounds. Baba, on the other hand, leans on his endurance and cage control, making opponents fight his fight. Their first meeting proved how closely matched they are, and now, with gold on the line, neither can afford to let the fight slip through the judges’ hands.
On August 23 at the Abuja Velodrome, the story comes full circle. Do Santos will look to cement his dominance and silence any doubts about his first win. Baba will be fueled by the home crowd, seeking redemption and the ultimate payoff, becoming the first-ever AKO lightweight champion. This is more than a rematch; it’s the fight that will define both of their careers.
