MMA fest is back in the Bay

Organisers Chris Bright and Steve Jefferson, who are staging the cage fight under the Image Fighting Champions flag, hailed the success of the previous event held in the city last year in December.

They have assembled a bill of eight high level amateur fighters from around the country and four professional fights.

The main professional bouts will be between Brendon Dean, of Johannesburg, and Warren Allison, from Bloemfontein, while Port Elizabeth-born Jordan Machtle will be up against Sizwe Mnkathi.

Also in action will be fighters from the Port Elizabeth's two teams Evolution and PE Submission Fighting Academy (SFA).

Bright said the event would be much bigger than the previous fights as there would be a television production team and the fans would enjoy live entertainment from musical group PH Fat, from Cape Town.

"The last fight was an incredible success. The place was almost packed and the fighters produced some great action for the fans.

"We expect more than 1000 fans this time."

Jefferson said the people of Port Elizabeth always want something different for entertainment. "Martial arts fighting is the fasted growing sport and entertainment, and we've got talented people in the city."

Bay's SFA professional fighter Machtle said he was more than ready. "The training went well and a lot of hard work has been invested in this fight. I am confident that I will win the bout."

Amateur fighter Tim Jopsan said he had been training twice a day in preparation for his fight. "I'm expecting nothing less than a victory. I don't know what to expect from my opponent, but I will put up a good fight against him."

Another high-powered amateur Cameron Pritchard said it was all systems go for the tournament and his preparation had been smooth. "I'm looking forward to the fight."

Organisers said the event would produce fireworks and the tickets, which are already on sale, cost between R120 and R250. They are available from all Cafe Capellini outlets and the RVCA shop in Walmer.