Nkosi Ndebele returns home with victory at PFL Africa Pretoria

By Rynhardt Kuhn
11th April 2026

PFL Africa Bantamweight Champion, Nkosi Ndebele revealed he needed to fight smart in his unanimous decision victory over Italian Michele Clemente in the main event of PFL Africa Pretoria.

The defending champion, always expected a challenge from an international opponent, but always believed he could outclass Clemente in his own backyard.

"I always respect any athlete that is willing to get into the cage with me. I know that with any international opponent you're always going to face challenges, but Clemente was nothing I couldn't handle."

The Italian challenger showed heart and a willingness to make it a fight, but frequently ran into sharp counters from the “King of Many Nations”.

READ: Justin Clarke slays Abdoulaye Kane in spectacular fashion at PFL Africa

During the post-fight press conference, Ndebele was deeply satisfied that he could win a main event of a fight card that showcased the pinnacle of South African and African MMA.

He says the PFL has provided this platform for local fighters to prove they have what it takes to compete on the global elite level…

"If you talk about MMA, there's no way you cannot mention South Africa, and what a great platform PFL has brought to South Africa for everyone to be able to see the talent we have. We just need the platform and we will prove anyone wrong."

As the fight progressed, Ndebele shifted from an aggressive approach to a more relaxed mood which allowed him to enjoy the fight and anticipate Clemente’s attacks.

The Bali-based technician didn’t have much footage on Clemente to study before their fight, and so he just had to amplify his own style.

"I just had to amplify my own style when I was getting ready to face him, because he hasn't fought in a while - there isn't too many videos on him.

"I've been in his position before as a young and hungry fighter, and you have to be very careful of such people, but I always work hard to improve myself so that I may counter any fighter that stands in front of me."

After almost eight years since his last fight in South Africa, Nkosi Ndebele gave local fight fans a night to remember in what might turn out to be his final fight in South Africa as he continues to climb up the MMA food chain.