Nigeria gears up for inaugural MMA tourney in Canada

By Christopher Oji

Nigeria is set to make a mark on the global stage as nine seasoned fighters and four officials have been selected to represent the country at the inaugural Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Tournament in Canada, scheduled for July 2025.

According to a statement by Mr. Michael Short, President of DEKADA PROMOTIONS (Dekada King of the Cage, Canada), the tournament will take place across two venues. The preliminary bouts are set for July 18 and 19, 2025, at 1515 Home Road, Calgary, Alberta, while the final bouts will be held on July 26, 2025, at 10765 135a St, Surrey, British Columbia.

The Nigerian team, comprising fighters from the Kogi State MMA Association are Isioma Godwin Ossien, Queen Ifeoma Acha, Oluwasegun David Adejugbe, Ehis Festus Ogbekhilu, Confidence Osakioduwa Ogbeide, Doris Abiye Horstall, Olamide Zaynab Folorunsho, Osariemen Blessing and Igori Blessing Osekobe.

Accompanying them to the tournament are team officials namely Lawrence Chinye Oshanugor, Emmanuel Akpor Paikefiye, Eugene Chinedu Neose and Odion Emoni

The Kogi State MMA Association has secured sponsorship from Matino Nwa Investment Company Limited, in collaboration with the Kogi State Sports Council, to support the athletes’ participation in the competition.

Expressing enthusiasm for the event, the Kogi Sports Council has pledged full support for the team, viewing the tournament as a crucial platform for the fighters to gain international exposure and enhance their performance ahead of future competitions.

With high expectations and solid backing, Team Nigeria is poised to make a strong impression at the prestigious tournament.