BRAVE Combat Federation

Nkosi Ndebele departs BRAVE CF after historic championship run

By LockerRoom Team March 23, 2025

BRAVE Combat Federation has announced the departure of Nkosi "The Future" Ndebele, marking the end of a historic chapter for the promotion. Ndebele, who became BRAVE CF’s first fully homegrown world champion, leaves the organization after more than eight years.

Ndebele joined BRAVE CF in 2017, rising from the amateur ranks to professional competition. Over his tenure, he competed in 11 professional fights under the promotion, compiling an 8-3 record with five stoppage victories. His crowning achievement came at BRAVE CF 80 in December 2023, when he captured the bantamweight championship with a dominant performance against Jose Torres.

"Nkosi has been an integral part of BRAVE's journey, and his contributions to the organization go beyond just his fights," BRAVE CF President Mohammed Shahid said. "He has been a true professional and a champion, embodying everything we stand for. His presence has left a lasting impact, and we appreciate the years he dedicated to BRAVE CF."

Ndebele's career includes several key milestones. He competed on three continents, fought in four title bouts, and accumulated 143 minutes and 24 seconds of total cage time—the second-highest in BRAVE CF history.

Reflecting on his time with the promotion, Ndebele said, "My journey with BRAVE CF has been transformative. From my first amateur fight to becoming champion, I've grown not just as a fighter but as a person. I appreciate the vision and support of His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa and the leadership of Mohammed Shahid. The opportunities and platform BRAVE CF provided have been invaluable in showcasing African MMA talent to the world."

Ndebele’s final appearance for BRAVE CF came at BRAVE CF 91 in Bahrain, where he lost his title in a five-round battle against Zimbabwe’s Nicholas Hwende.

"Working with Nkosi has been a privilege," said Muhammad Rizvan Ali, BRAVE CF’s athlete relations manager. "His professionalism, dedication, and journey from amateur to world champion have set a high standard for our athletes. He will always be part of the BRAVE CF family."

As Ndebele moves forward in his career, BRAVE CF celebrates his achievements and the legacy he leaves behind in the organization and African MMA.