EFC confirms Elvis Moyo overweight - Matunga Djikasa can claim the belt

Moyo missed the ceremonial weigh-in earlier in the day and, after returning hours later, was still unable to cut down to the required mark.

According to the federation, he came in just under 1kg over the championship threshold, ruling him out of defending his belt.

Despite the setback, the bout will proceed as scheduled on Thursday night, with Djikasa the sole contender eligible to walk away with the title.

EFC matchmaker Graeme Cartmell said he had been eager to see the two heavyweights clash in the hexagon, describing it as one of the standout contests of the year.

"The heavyweights have always been the most sought-after division for any promotion, so when we get the opportunity to stage a defence that has a narrative behind it, you are ticking all the boxes."

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Cartmell was amped up to see a fierce battle between Moyo and Djikasa.

"We can't promote this fight, it has already been promoted. The guys need to show up on Thursday, and do what they have been training to do, which is to take one another out."

At the press conference, Djikasa had praised EFC for its organisation of MMA on the African continent.

"EFC is the best promotion in all of Africa, and we who live here in Africa must support EFC events."