Peace Nguphane toppled former champ in explosive PFL Africa Debut

Nguphane promised to end the fight in the second round, but had to settle for a rather comfortable unanimous decision victory in the end largely thanks to his aggressive and confrontational style. 

His dogged determination earned him the performance of the night award, something that Nguphane believed he always had in his locker.

"I did say I’ll finish this in the second round, and I was very close. I had him hurt to the body and I could hear him breathing very heavy. It was just a matter of timing. He came in hard, but I could tell he was really tired. I just had to keep the pressure," Nguphane said.

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The atmosphere in Pretoria was electric, though N’Tchala attempted to sway the local crowd by walking out to the South African national anthem—a move that left many, including Nguphane, momentarily stunned.

"I didn't know if he was trying to steal the fans there or what, but I was just shocked," Nguphane admitted. 

"Most people will take it as disrespect, but I took it as respect. It was his way of trying to show respect to South Africa. But at the same time, my competitive self says you just wanted to steal the crowd a little bit... and I’m grateful that we shut it down."

After a bit of a rocky start “X” Nguphane steadied himself and dragged the fight into his world with well timed takedowns and commanding top control.

Now, the result leaves the South African with a great deal of optimism as the PFL Africa Welterweight tournament is sparked into life. 

All signs are pointing to a possible semifinal matchup against Angola’s Shido Boris Esperança.

The House of Tinkerbell fighter says he’ll be ready…

“What’s next? I think it’s Shido. Shido is next, man," Nguphane confirmed. 

"He is a great competitor, and I think he will bring more to the game than the champion did.