Unbeaten David Samuel headlines PFL Africa Finals as three champions to be crowned in Kigali

PFL Africa will crown three champions at BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda on December 12, with title fights across the welterweight, lightweight and bantamweight divisions each carrying a $100,000 prize.

The headline bout sees Angola’s Shido Boris Esperança (13-2) take on undefeated Nigerian David Samuel (7-0) for the 170-pound welterweight title. Esperança reached the final with a first-round stoppage, while Samuel secured a decision victory to preserve his perfect record.

“My Nigerian roots opened the door for me to compete in PFL Africa, and reaching the final is a special source of pride for me,” Samuel said. “Behind this achievement are years of hard work, self-belief, and the support of those who have always stood by my side.”

The 155-pound lightweight final pits Nigeria’s Patrick Ocheme (10-1) against Senegal’s Demba Seck (11-3). Ocheme booked his place in the final with a first-round body-kick knockout in the semifinals.

In the bantamweight division, Liberia’s Dwight Joseph (17-3) faces Nigeria’s Raphael Uchegbu (11-2) for the 135-pound championship. Joseph advanced via split decision, while Uchegbu brings former FCC title pedigree into the contest.

“Reaching the finals means a lot to me,” Joseph said. “Coming up short last year motivated me to push even harder this time around. I’m writing a different story this time in Kigali. I’m getting my hand raised, leaving with that belt, and taking it back to Liberia.”

PFL Africa General Manager Elias Schulze said the event is designed to spotlight emerging MMA talent from across the continent, with the card accompanied by a 12-day activation period at Zaria Court dubbed Kigali Fight Week.