Best MMA Fighters From South Africa

The MMA scene in South Africa is blowing up and even more so since the nation’s first UFC champion was crowned. Now, there are more people with eyes on South Africa to see what top fighter comes from the country next.

Here’s a list of the best MMA fighters from South Africa and a few you need to look out for. Whenever these fighters take the cage the best UFC betting sites in South Africa will be loaded with bets.

Dricus Du Pleiss 

If we’re talking about the best MMA fighters from South Africa, obviously Dricus Du Pleiss must be mentioned first. He is now the greatest South African MMA fighter of all time, who reached the top of the mountain.

After a dominant run mostly on the South African promotion EFC, Pleiss made his UFC debut in 2020. Pleiss went on a reign of terror, dominating his opponents with his well-rounded skills.

He beat everyone put in front of him decisively, which included former middleweight champ, Robert Whittaker. Dricus rode his 6-0 unbeaten streak into his title match against Sean Strickland.

The South African was able to make history by becoming the first South African UFC champion in history. Du Pleiss made his country proud and we eagerly await his first title defense.

Don Madge

Under Du Pleiss, Don Madge is the most internationally known South African fighter in the world. He is easily one of the best MMA fighters from South Africa and is a former UFC fighter.

Madge actually went 2-0 in the UFC before moving to PFL for a bigger contract. He’s looking PFL’s million dollar prize and to become the promotion’s next lightweight champion. 

Luthando Biko

For a number of years, fight experts have touted Luthando Biko as one of the best MMA fighters from South Africa. Biko is another home grown talent from the South African promotion EFC, who currently has a 12-3 record. 

Now, 15 fights into his pro career, Biko is now taking more international fights outside of South Africa. Maybe we’ll see him make his way to one of the top North American or ONE Championship in the future.

Igeu Kabesa 

Igeu “Smiley” Kabesa might be one of the best MMA fighters from South Africa waiting for his shot in the UFC. Kabesa has earned an impressive 17-2 record, which has all been with EFC.

Kabesa has shown well-rounded skills in his young career, showing he has both KO power and submission skills. Smiley is currently riding a 5 fight win streak and you could easily see him make his UFC debut really soon.

Mark Hulme

The last person we’ll cover on our best MMA fighter from South Africa list is South African welterweight Mark Hulme. Mark is a 29 year old fighter fighting out of Johannesburg with a current pro record of 12-3.

Hulme has won the majority of his 12 wins by submissions. He has fought the majority of his career with EFC, but has also had stints with M-1, Unified MMA, and UAE Warriors.

Now that there’s a South African champ, don’t be surprised to see Hulme make his UFC debut soon.