Ivory Coast MMA Scene Explodes: Bah Franck & Serri Botti Secure Final Spots
Abidjan, Ivory Coast – November 16, 2025 – The energy in Abidjan was electric Saturday as the Eric Favre GYM 225 complex hosted the second semi-final of the national MMA championship. Two fighters, Bah Franck and Serri Botti, punched their tickets to the November 29th final, marking a pivotal moment for the rapidly growing sport of Mixed Martial Arts in Ivory Coast. This isn’t just a local sporting event; it’s a signal of a burgeoning athletic movement gaining momentum across the African continent. For those following Google News for emerging sports trends, this is a story to watch.
Fighters Deliver Thrilling Performances
The semi-final card delivered a night of intense action, captivating a passionate crowd. Bah Franck, competing in the 94-93 kg category, secured a hard-fought victory over Zeregbe Marcus in the third round. The fight was characterized by powerful striking and skillful ground control, showcasing Franck’s well-rounded abilities. “The semi-final went well. It went well, I’m happy but it’s not easy at all. You have to be a warrior to reach that level,” Franck stated after his win, reflecting the dedication required to compete at this level. He believes this is just the beginning for MMA in Ivory Coast.
In the 75 kg division, Serri Botti dominated Tra Bi Melvin, earning his place in the final. Botti attributed his success to diligent preparation and the support of his coaching team and Cap sports at FIAMM. “I will say that luck was on my side. Talk about luck, talk about hard work. So I prepared well thanks to my coaches… who tried to provide the equipment and all that to train us better, supervise us better,” he explained.
A Federation Focused on Growth and Global Recognition
The success of the semi-finals has energized the Ivorian MMA Federation. President Jackson Tapé expressed immense pride in the technical quality of the fights and issued a rallying cry for fans to support the athletes at the final, which will feature nine clashes, including two women’s bouts. “We observed some very good fistfights and ground fights. The fight, everything came together. So I am very proud of my fighters,” Tapé said. He emphasized the importance of strong fan support to elevate the event and showcase the talent within the country.
MMA: A Global Sport with African Roots
While MMA has its origins in Brazil and the United States, its popularity is surging globally, and Africa is quickly becoming a hotbed for talent. The rise of MMA in Ivory Coast mirrors similar growth in countries like South Africa and Nigeria. This expansion isn’t just about athletic competition; it’s about economic opportunity, providing a pathway for young athletes to pursue professional careers. Understanding SEO best practices is crucial for covering these emerging sports stories and reaching a wider audience. The Ivorian MMA Federation’s ambition extends beyond national borders, with a clear vision to establish the country as a competitive force on the African and international MMA stage. The dedication to providing better training facilities, as highlighted by Botti, is a key component of this strategy.
The November 29th final promises to be a spectacular event, showcasing the best of Ivorian MMA. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of this exciting sport and the athletes who are shaping its future. Don’t miss out on the latest breaking news and in-depth analysis from around the world.
