BRAVE CF 91 Fighters Speak Out Ahead of Tomorrow’s Explosive Showdown

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

With the much-anticipated BRAVE CF 91 just one day away, fighters gathered at yesterday’s press conference held at Oasis Mall in Juffair to share their thoughts ahead of the event. As BRAVE CF returns to Bahrain tomorrow, December 13, the fighters took center stage, offering a glimpse into the mindset and determination that will drive them in the cage.

Bantamweight: Hamza Kooheji vs. Alperen Karabulut

Bahrain’s Hamza Kooheji is eager to return to the octagon after a two-year hiatus and fight in front of a home crowd.

“Fighting in Bahrain, for me, is the greatest privilege. The crowd gives me a lot of support and an additional push in my fights,” Kooheji shared, speaking exclusively to Hussain Almaskati of TDT.

Reflecting on his time away from the cage, he added, “During my two years out of the octagon, I did not simply rest on my laurels. I continued training, eating right, and making sure I was fit for when the next fight comes along.”

Kooheji also exchanged heated words with Turkey’s Alperen Karabulut during Friday night’s face-off, raising the stakes further. Karabulut dismissed the home advantage, stating, “It doesn’t matter where I fight. I’m here to win. Hamza has the crowd behind him, but that won’t intimidate me. I’ve trained for this, and I’ll show that I’m the better fighter.”

Undisputed Bantamweight Championship: Nkosi Ndebele vs. Nicholas Hwende

South Africa’s Nkosi Ndebele will defend his Bantamweight title against Nicholas Hwende from Zimbabwe in what promises to be an intriguing contest.

“I’ve been preparing for this moment my entire career,” Ndebele said. “Hwende is a tough opponent, but I know I have what it takes to keep my belt. He may have the hunger, but I have the experience and technique to outclass him.”

Hwende, however, was equally confident.

“I respect Nkosi’s skills, but I believe I’ve worked hard enough to dethrone him,” he remarked. “I’ve studied his fights, and I know where I can capitalize. Tomorrow, I’m taking that title.”

Super Welterweight: Zagid Gaidarov vs. Eliezer Kubanza

In the Super Welterweight division, Zagid Gaidarov (Bahrain) faces Eliezer Kubanza (DRC). Gaidarov is confident heading into the bout.

“I’ve faced top fighters before and know what it takes to win. The pressure is on Kubanza,” Gaidarov said. “Fighting at home is a huge advantage, and I’m ready to show everyone why I’m the one to beat.”

Kubanza, however, maintained his composure, remarking, “I’ve faced challenges before, and I’ve come out on top. Gaidarov may have a different style, but I’m not worried. I’ve constantly surprised my opponents, and I’ll do it again. Tomorrow night, I’ll show the world the hype is real.”

Flyweight: Mohammed Alsameea vs. Salah Walid

Bahraini Flyweight Mohammed Alsameea is ready for his homecoming fight after a challenging period away from the sport.

“Alhamdulillah, I am prepared for anything, and inshAllah, my return will be stronger than ever. I hope to see you all there and make you proud tomorrow night,” Alsameea stated to TDT.

His opponent, Egypt’s Salah Walid, appeared unfazed by the prospect of fighting in Bahrain.

“It doesn’t matter where I fight; I’m here to win,” Walid stated. “I’m ready to take on anyone, and I’m prepared to defeat Alsameea tomorrow.”

Joevincent So Steps In Against Muhammad Mokaev

An eleventh-hour twist saw Joevincent So step up to face Muhammad Mokaev after the latter’s opponent pulled out. So embraced the challenge, saying, “I step in with two days’ notice to fight the number one, Muhammad Mokaev, and I can guarantee you that I will give the fans an exciting fight.”

With a stacked fight card and so much on the line, BRAVE CF 91 is set to be a memorable night for MMA fans. The event will be headlined by the Undisputed Bantamweight Championship between Nkosi Ndebele and Nicholas Hwende, with the co-main event featuring Hamza Kooheji versus Alperen Karabulut. The Super Welterweight clash between Zagid Gaidarov and Eliezer Kubanza, and the Flyweight bout between Mohammed Alsameea and Salah Walid round out an exciting lineup of fights.

Taking place at Khalifa Sports City, the event is part of the larger BRAVE International Combat Week and will be followed by BRAVE CF 92 on December 15, concluding a record-breaking year for the organization.