Flyweight star eyeing EFC gold
If the statements made at the post-fight conference of EFC 113 hold true, Tumelo Manyamala will be fighting for the EFC title in less than four months.
The flyweight sensation from Pride Fighting Academy has been eagerly awaiting his shot at EFC gold, and last Thursday, he may have finally forced Graeme Cartmell and his EFC team to grant him the opportunity.
This follows yet another stoppage win, this time against Micky Cloete, earning Manyamala another performance bonus and improving his record to 6-1.
The only blemish on Manyamala's record is a split decision loss in the UAE earlier this year, marking the first time he had to wait for the judges to decide his fate. In his other six fights, his opponents all hit the canvas and had to be saved by the referees.
Cartmell, vice-president of Talent at EFC, acknowledges that the only logical step now is to grant Manyamala a title shot. This opportunity could come against either promotion veteran Nkazimulo Zulu or another flyweight sensation, Terrence Balelo. The two are set to fight for the title sometime in July, with the winner facing Manyamala.
For Manyamala, whose moniker “Bones of Steel” describes his toughness, the prospect of facing either fighter is thrilling. He doesn’t mind which opponent he faces, both fights promise to be electrifying. MMA fans can look forward to high-level competition in the flyweight division, with any match-up involving Manyamala and the two potential opponents sure to be a spectacle.
Manyamala's journey to this point has been nothing short of impressive. Training out of Pride Fighting Academy, he has consistently demonstrated an exceptional striking skillset and athleticism that has propelled him to the top of the EFC flyweight division. His latest victory over Cloete, marked by a decisive stoppage, only solidified that status of a top contender
But he isn’t the only Cape Town-based fighter making waves in the EFC. Faeez Jacobs also made a significant statement on the last EFC card. Jacobs put himself back into title contention with a first-round stoppage win against Sylvester Chipfumbu. This victory was particularly sweet as it reversed his loss to the same man who took his bantamweight title back in 2021. With this second consecutive win, Jacobs has climbed back to the top of the division and is eyeing a chance to reclaim his title.
Jacobs' performance showcased his striking prowess and tactical acumen even though he claimed he wanted to take his time in the cage.
“Troublemaker” would like nothing more than to reclaim his gold and a first-round stoppage win is a great way to make a case for that opportunity.
