Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua sets the stage for PFL Africa finals - MMA history in Benin

This isn't just convenient timing, it's momentum. Hours after Anthony Joshua's brutal sixth-round knockout of Jake Paul captivated millions worldwide, combat sports fever remains at a peak.

Now, Africa gets its moment to shine as the inaugural Professional Fighters League (PFL) Africa Finals make history in Benin on Saturday.

The Paul-Joshua fight reminded everyone why combat sports captivate global audiences. Joshua's crushing right hand that broke Paul's jaw generated massive conversation across platforms.

That same energy now flows directly into the PFL Africa Finals, an event poised to launch careers and create new stars on the continent.

With combat sports dominating headlines and fans still buzzing about Jake’s knockout, the world's attention remains fixed on the fight game. The PFL is capitalising on this momentum to showcase African MMA talent to over 100 countries.

The inaugural PFL Africa Finals represent far more than championship fights. This is a watershed moment for Mixed Martial Arts on the continent, marking the establishment of a major global promotions complete, season-based structure on African soil.

Concluding a season that spanned Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Kigali, the finals signal long-term commitment to nurturing African MMA. Each division winner earns a $100,000 prize, one of the largest payouts for professional athletes in sub-Saharan Africa, and direct entry into PFL's global circuit.

John Martin, CEO of the Professional Fighters League, had emphasised the event's significance: "More than a championship, it's a celebration of Africa's athletic excellence, cultural strength, and global influence."

The tournament showcases pan-African unity, with fighters from South Africa, Nigeria, Algeria, Angola, Cameroon, and Guinea-Bissau competing for inaugural titles.

Just as Paul learned that facing elite competition has real consequences, Africa's rising fighters are ready to prove they belong on the world stage, not as influencers playing fighters, but as legitimate martial artists who've been grinding for this platform.