PFL African Event: Ukah Eyes Thrilling Debut Against South African Ceileigh

Nigerian policewoman and mixed martial arts sensation Juliet Ukah has expressed her confidence ahead of her eagerly anticipated fight against South Africa’s Ceileigh Niedermayr in the PFL Africa SmartCage on 19 July in Cape Town.

After meeting her opponent for the first time during an open workout in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, on 25 June, Ukah stated, “I expect to get the finish, but I don’t mind going to a third round if needed.”

The two athletes will compete in a Showcase Women’s Strawweight bout as part of the inaugural season of PFL Africa, which is set to take place at the Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town.

During the open workout held at the Champions Academy RDC Gym in Kinshasa, Ukah and Niedermayr demonstrated their skills in front of fans and media prior to their highly anticipated matchup.

Juliet Ukah remarked, “I’m very happy to be on the first PFL Africa card, and my fight with Ceileigh is going to be an exciting one. We’re representing the two biggest MMA nations in Africa, and we want to help put African MMA in the global spotlight. I consider myself the more experienced fighter and the better striker, so I’m comfortable wherever the fight goes. I expect to finish the fight, but I’m prepared for a third round if necessary. Ceileigh, let’s bring out the best in each other and show the world how well African women can fight!”

In response, Ceileigh Niedermayr acknowledged the significance of the bout, stating, “It’s truly an honour to be part of the first-ever women’s fight in PFL Africa.

This fight camp isn’t just about preparing for my next opponent; it reflects my lifelong dedication to martial arts. I’m continually pushing myself to grow, evolve, and become the best fighter I can be. On fight night, I’m bringing a new level of ‘Smiley Savagery’ to the SmartCage. I have immense respect for Juliet as a fighter and welcome the opportunity to test myself against her, but I believe she’s never faced anyone like me.

I’m anticipating an exciting, high-level battle — and I’m ready for it.”

The historic PFL Cape Town event will mark the beginning of the 2025 PFL Africa Tournament, featuring first-round matchups in the Heavyweight and Bantamweight divisions.

The event will also be headlined by five must-see bouts from the PFL Champions Series, including a Middleweight World Championship main event between titleholder Johnny “Pressure” Eblen (16-0) and challenger Costello “The Spaniard” van Steenis (16-3).