A Mixed Martial Arts Primer
MMA, or mixed martial arts, is a combat sports variety that puts together elements of numerous other disciplines, including Muay Thai, wrestling, jiu-jitsu, boxing, kickboxing, taekwondo, and more.
Like any sport, this activity also has its own rules. Here they are in brief: two athletes fight in a fenced ring without shoes and helmets but wearing special fingerless gloves. On average, a match lasts 3 to 5 rounds of 5 minutes each.
During the contest, opponents are allowed to strike, grapple, and kick from either a standing or a grounded position. There’s also a range of prohibited techniques, such as hair pulling, eye gouging, biting, and kicks to the groin, kidneys, and back of the head.
The winner is determined by submission, knockout, technical knockout, or a panel of judges’ decision. Men and women can compete in diverse weight classes, which vary depending on the organization. Some of the world’s renowned MMA promotions comprise
- Ultimate Fighting Championship,
- Bellator MMA,
- One Championship,
- Rizin Fighting Federation,
- Invicta Fight Championships,
- Professional Fighters League,
- AMC Fight Nights.
Is the Sport a Hit in Kenya?
Though not as hit as football, MMA has its niche among sports fans in Kenya. There are training schools, gyms, associations, and competitions nationwide.
Today’s most acclaimed Kenyan organization promoting mixed martial arts is Local Fight Night Entertainment or LFNE Championship. The company, headquartered in Nairobi with Stephen Omwenga at the helm, was established in November 2020.
The promoter takes under its wing not only local athletes but also fighters from all over Africa, enabling them to train, get the medical attention they need, perform, and build a professional career.
The organization cooperates with major national television stations, which broadcast events and help popularize the sport and fighters. Also, the promoter partners with sports and non-profit initiatives to make the platform a stepping stone for locals to a new life.
LFNE is the continent’s second pivotal MMA promotion, along with South Africa’s Extreme Fighting Championship.
Kenya’s Stellar Fighters
Given the rapid development of mixed martial arts in the region, Kenyan fighters stand a good chance of conquering the UFC anytime soon. Meanwhile, you can cheer on the country’s athletes shining in African rings.
| 🆔 Name | 📛 Nickname | 📏 Height (cm) | ⚖️ Weight (kg) |
| Mohammed Ware | Young Master | 176 | 65.1 |
| Peris Githiga | Iron Leg | 155.5 | 56.5 |
| Felista Mugo | Young Queen | 176 | 63.1 |
| William Odino | Hammer | 175.5 | 80.7 |
| Julius Wafula | Billy | 165.5 | 72 |
| Mary Gathambi | Zulfa | 165.5 | 69.8 |
| Joseph Ndegwa | Blackbull | 170.9 | 60.5 |
| Stephen Wechuli | Cobra | 170.8 | 68.4 |
| Edwin Mwiti | Destroyer | 172 | 60.3 |
| Samwel Kalawa | Killer | 176.8 | 67.5 |
| Lena Kinya | Alpha | 158.9 | 53.8 |
| Jackson Kiriki | Cobra | 179.8 | 63 |
MMA Betting with bet365
A lot of Kenyan sportsbooks list MMA as a betting category, which also proves the sport’s popularity in the region. One such online platform is bet365, accessible via browser or mobile application.
If you wish to wager on MMA with great odds and user-friendly software, keep an eye on this operator. And we’ll outline exactly how to stake with the bookie.
Download the App
Visit the bookmaker’s official website from your mobile device, scroll to the bottom, and click “View all bet365 apps.” Opt for “Sports” and push the download button. Once the file is downloaded on your phone, allow for its installation.
Create an Account
Open the app and tap the “Join Now” button. Fill out the form by entering the correct personal data. Create your username and password, tick the box to confirm your legal age and accept the terms, rules, and policies, and join.
Fund Your Account
Log in to the app and select the deposit option at the top right next to the profile icon. Pick your preferred payment method, input the necessary details together with the amount, and tap on “Deposit.” Pass the verification to finish the process.
Make Your MMA Picks
Swipe the horizontal menu with sports to the left and opt for “Boxing/MMA.” Make your MMA selections by clicking on the respective odds. Finally, set your stake amount and place your bet. Use the “MY BETS” tab to track or edit the wager.
A Quick Recap
Mixed martial arts are on the rise in Kenya. The country is home to a large, successful promotion and regularly hosts spectacular events that showcase local talents. So, it’s likely that Kenyan punters will next have more chances to bet on fights featuring their compatriots.
