The Abuja Continental Hotel is set to host the African Knockout Championship (AKO) fifth edition on August 10, 2024, the organisers have said.

The championship will feature action across various divisions, including featherweight, middleweight, lightweight, and women’s bantamweight.

Leading the card is a highly anticipated showdown between Nigeria’s Segun Ogunnoiki, and Cote d’Ivoire’s star Yao Marcel. They will vie for a prized spot in the championship playoffs.

Other matchups are Jackiel Anyana, known as “The Smiling Assassin,” against Kudzete Fred in the featherweight division, Cornel Thompson versus Uganda’s James Opio in what promises to be a fierce lightweight battle, and Kenya’s Andere Victor squaring off with Morocco’s Faout Youseff.

The lineup also includes Daniel Iwuoha versus Francias Mozou, Yahaya Yahuza Mohammed against Emmanuel Christian in the middleweight division, and Xavier Adams Boa battling Dennis Johnson.

Speaking on the championship, the UFC legend and AKO co-owner, Kamaru Usman, said the event is another significant milestone for African MMA, expressing confidence that the fighters will deliver an unforgettable show for the fans.

He said AKO5 is going to be a night to remember as the energy, fans, and fights will be electric.

AKO’s Chief Executive Officer, Natasha Belousova, said the body has become a platform for showcasing the incredible talents in African MMA.

She said that the event will further solidify AKO’s position as a leading MMA promotion on the continent and provide young talents with an unparalleled opportunity to shine on a global stage.