Dakota Ditcheva, the reigning PFL flyweight world champion, is set to make her highly anticipated return to the cage on July 26, 2025, in Cape Town, South Africa. This marks the Professional Fighters League (PFL)’s inaugural event on the African continent, and Ditcheva will headline the card in a non-title bout against Sumiko Inaba, a seasoned veteran of the Bellator flyweight division.

Ditcheva’s Road to Cape Town

Ditcheva, 26, has been vocal about her frustration with the PFL’s lack of activity since her historic victory last November, where she became the first British woman to win a major MMA world title. With an undefeated record of 14 wins (13 finishes), Ditcheva has established herself as one of the most dominant forces in women’s MMA.

Sumiko Inaba: A Worthy Opponent

Inaba, 34, brings a wealth of experience to the cage. Although she was not part of the PFL’s 2024 flyweight tournament, her tenure in Bellator has prepared her for this high-stakes matchup. This fight promises to be a clash of styles, with Ditcheva’s aggressive finishing ability pitted against Inaba’s technical prowess.

A Star-Studded Event

The event will also feature Johnny Eblen, the former Bellator middleweight champion, defending his world title against Costello van Steenis of the Netherlands. The PFL Champions Series portion of the night will follow the opening round of an all-African tournament across multiple weight classes, showcasing the depth of talent in the region.

Francis Ngannou’s Involvement

Adding to the prestige of the event, Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion and current PFL ambassador, will oversee the proceedings. His presence underscores the significance of this event as a milestone for MMA in Africa.

What’s at Stake?

For Ditcheva, this fight is an opportunity to solidify her legacy and continue her unbeaten streak. For Inaba, it’s a chance to prove she belongs among the elite in the PFL. With both fighters hungry for victory, fans can expect an explosive showdown in Cape Town.

How to Watch

The event will be available on PFL’s global broadcast partners, with additional coverage on the BBC Sport app and website. Don’t miss this historic night of MMA action!