South Sudan Kickboxing Targets African Breakthrough Ahead of Nairobi MMA Eliminator


By: Emmanuel Patrick Laku | Sports Hunter South Sudan 

The President of the South Sudan Kickboxing Federation and head coach, , says the country’s fighters are heading into a crucial stage of their international journey as they depart for Kenya aboard the “Simba Coach” bus for an MMA eliminator in Nairobi.

Speaking in an exclusive interview before departure, Puro Okello said two fighters — Abadingu Thon, nicknamed “Weezy,” and Bichok Musa Peter — will represent South Sudan in key elimination bouts against Ugandan and Kenyan opponents.

He explained that the fights are ranking qualifiers that could elevate the athletes to top positions in African MMA standings.

“This is an elimination fight. If our fighters win, they will be ranked number one,” Okello said. “It is a fresh start. These young men are opening the way for us.”

According to him, the bouts form part of a structured pathway toward African rankings, with potential opportunities to progress into international professional platforms, including the Professional Fighters League (PFL).

Okello, who also serves as the fighters’ coach, said MMA combines striking, wrestling, takedowns, and submissions, noting that South Sudanese athletes already possess a strong natural wrestling foundation.

“We are blessed with talented wrestlers from different communities. What we need now is technical refinement,” he added.

He further revealed that one of the athletes has already secured opportunities in Muay Thai competition, with upcoming fights scheduled in Addis Ababa as South Sudan’s combat sports profile continues to grow.

The coach urged fans and supporters to rally behind the team, emphasizing discipline, pride, and national representation ahead of the Nairobi contest.

“We are going to compete with pride and make the country proud,” he said.



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