DR Congo: PFL stars, Juliet Ukah, Ceileigh Niedermayr face off ahead of historic Cape Town event.

The historic event is set to take place on Saturday, July 19, at the Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town, South Africa. 

In prelude to the mega event, the two female Mix Martial Arts, MMA, talents, on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, thrilled fans during an open workout. This was at the Champions Academy RDC Gym in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. 

The open workout marked the first meeting for Ukah and Niedermayr as they continue to intensify preparations for their highly anticipated fight next month.

In front of the fans and media in attendance, Ukah and Niedermayr showcased their skills in a public training session before facing off for the first time ahead of their highly anticipated clash.

The pre-match showdown between Ukah and Niedermayr has generated significant buzz and anticipation among fans, who are now eagerly anticipating the PFL Cape Town event, marking the debut of MMA in Africa. 

Ukah targets knockout, Niedermayr plots upset

Speaking during the faceoff in Kinshasa on Wednesday, Nigeria's Ukah expressed her enthusiasm about being part of the pioneer lineup for the PLF Africa Card. 

The Nigeria police woman said she will head into the fight with a ton of confidence stating that she is poised to dismiss her opponent's challenge with ease. 

"We’re going to be representing the two biggest MMA nations in Africa, and we want to help put African MMA in the global spotlight. Compared to her, I think I’m the more experienced fighter and the better striker, so I’m comfortable wherever the fight goes. I expect to get the finish, but I don't mind going to a third round if needed," Ukah said confidently.

Niedermayr did not hide her excitement of being part of the first-ever women's fight on the PFL Africa card. According to her, the fight camp isn’t just about preparing for her opponent but represents what she considers as a "lifelong dedication to martial arts" as she continues to push herself "to grow, to evolve, and to become the best fighter I can be".

Niedermayr appeared unphased by her opponent. She stated that her rival would be overwhelmed by the intensity she brings to the fight.

“On fight night, I’m bringing a new level of Smiley Savagery to the SmartCage. I have a lot of respect for Juliet as a fighter, and I welcome the chance to test myself against her, but I don’t think she’s ever faced anyone like me. I’m expecting an exciting, high-level battle — and I’m ready for it,” Niedermayr declared.

The historic PFL Cape Town event will kick off the 2025 PFL Africa Tournament, featuring first round matchups in the Heavyweight and Bantamweight divisions.

The event will also be headlined by five must-see PFL Champions Series bouts, including a Middleweight World Championship main event between titleholder, Johnny “Pressure” Eblen (16-0) and challenger, Costello “The Spaniard” van Steenis (16-3).  Tickets for the event are on sale now via Ticketpro. 

About Professional Fighters League

Professional Fighters League, PFL, is a global powerhouse in MMA and the fastest-growing sports league world-wide.

PFL is the only MMA organisation with the "win and advance" tournament format. PFL has three fight products: PFL World Tournament, PFL Champions Series, and PFL International Leagues.

PFL is broadcast and streamed live to 190 countries with 20 leading media partners. PFL is backed by major blue-chip investors including SURJ, Ares, 885 Capital, Knighthead, Luxor Capital, Waverley Capital, Elysian Park Ventures, and numerous NBA, MLB, NHL, and MLS team owners.

MMA is the growth and global sport business of this decade, with 650 million fans worldwide, the youngest audience demographic, and true global revenue streams.