As BRAVE Combat Federation returns to the coastal city of Burgas for BRAVE CF 97, one of the most anticipated bouts on the card features a Lightweight showdown between Bulgaria’s Pavel “The Werewolf” Vladev and France’s Abou “Yondaime” Tounkara — a fight that pits knockout power against submission expertise in a high-stakes meeting.
Vladev (9-1), representing MMA Fight Club HOPE Gabrovo, enters the bout on a six-fight stoppage streak, with eight of his nine professional wins coming via knockout. Known for his aggressive striking and explosive finishes, Vladev has emerged as one of Bulgaria’s most dangerous MMA athletes. With the support of a home crowd behind him, he looks to extend his streak and strengthen his standing in the Lightweight division.
His opponent, Tounkara (12-6), brings more than a decade of experience and a well-rounded skill set to the BRAVE cage. A black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and veteran of the French circuit, he trains out of US Metro Bizot in Paris. Tounkara has finished eight of his victories by knockout and has consistently displayed the ability to shift between striking and grappling with ease.
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This matchup presents a classic stylistic contrast: Vladev’s forward pressure and knockout threat against Tounkara’s ground control and submission acumen. With significant divisional implications, the outcome could alter the Lightweight pecking order heading into the latter half of BRAVE CF’s “Year of the BRAVE” calendar.
BRAVE CF 97 continues the promotion’s European expansion and follows a successful debut in Bulgaria at BRAVE CF 86.
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