News from Angola – Angola will compete this Friday in the semi-finals of the World Championship of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), which will focus on the final, a competition that will take place at Arena Humo, in Uzbekistan.
After winning their respective fights and being ranked by points, by the International Federation of Mixed Martial Arts (IMMAF), the athletes move forward with the determination to fight in the competition.
In the semi-finals, the athletes Nkunga Vakand, who will face Barakatullo Asadulloev, from Tajikistan, in the 56 kg category will be on the national team and Milfa Kuenda Nicolau will compete against Ali Musakulov, from Kazakhstan, in the 88 kg category . men’s category.
Among the women, Maria Liberal will face Kiara Fegen, from South Africa (70.3 kg), Linara Costa and Ana Fernanda, both Angolans (79.4 kg).
Jeorgina Ludmila will compete with Mulder Ashirbekova, from Kazakhstan, and Esperança Pereira will face France’s Oceane Samson (56.7 kg) for Sunday’s finals, here are the Angolans already ranked:
Maria Kitoko (74 kg) and Clarence Francisco (79 kg), in junior.
How can Angolan youth get involved in martial arts training and development?
Interview: The Rising Stars of MMA – Insights from an Expert on Angola’s Representation at the World Championship
Editor (Time.news): Thank you for joining us today. We’re excited to discuss Angola’s participation in the upcoming semi-finals of the World Championship of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) taking place at Arena Humo in Uzbekistan. Can you start by giving us an overview of Angola’s performance so far in the championship?
Expert: Absolutely! Angola has shown tremendous spirit and skill. Athletes like Nkunga Vakand and Milfa Kuenda Nicolau have fought valiantly to reach the semi-finals. Their determination and rankings by points assigned by the International Federation of Mixed Martial Arts (IMMAF) speak volumes about their capabilities. This is a significant milestone not just for them but for Angolan MMA as a whole.
Editor: It’s fascinating to see such talent emerging. Can you speak about the matchups our athletes will face? What strategies do you think they should employ?
Expert: In the 56 kg category, Nkunga Vakand will be up against Barakatullo Asadulloev from Tajikistan. I believe Nkunga should focus on maintaining distance and utilizing his striking capabilities, as Asadulloev is known for his grappling skills. Meanwhile, Milfa Kuenda Nicolau will face Ali Musakulov from Kazakhstan in the 88 kg category. Milfa’s strength can be a key asset, but he’ll need to be cautious of Musakulov’s experience and technique.
On the women’s side, Maria Liberal’s bout against Kiara Fegen from South Africa presents an interesting dynamic, as both fighters are known for their agility. Linara Costa and Ana Fernanda also face crucial matches against tough competitors. My advice for them would be to capitalize on their training, focusing on combinations and counter-attacks to exploit any openings in their opponents’ defenses.
Editor: That’s invaluable advice. How do you think the success of these athletes will impact the MMA landscape in Angola?
Expert: The implications are significant. Success on an international stage can boost the profile of MMA in Angola, drawing more attention to the sport and potentially attracting sponsorships and investment in training facilities. It may also encourage more young athletes to pursue MMA as a viable sport, contributing to the development of local talent.
Editor: You mentioned local talent – could you elaborate on how the youth can get involved with MMA in Angola?
Expert: Definitely. For youth interested in MMA, it’s crucial to begin training in disciplines like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, or Muay Thai, which form the base of MMA. Joining local clubs or training academies under qualified trainers can help them develop fundamental skills. Additionally, participating in regional competitions can build confidence and experience.
Editor: As Angola continues to showcase its athletes on international platforms, do you foresee any challenges they might face?
Expert: Yes, challenges always exist. Transitioning from national to international competition is not easy. Our athletes may face more experienced opponents with different fighting styles. Mental toughness will be essential, as will adaptability to the rules and formats of international matches. Preparation in these areas will be key for their success.
Editor: Thank you for those insights. Lastly, how can our readers support Angolan athletes during this championship?
Expert: One of the best ways to support is to follow the event online and share their journey on social platforms, creating a sense of community and encouragement. Engaging with local sports organizations and attending matches when possible also contributes significantly. Every bit of support helps fuel their motivation and publicizes the sport even further in Angola.
Editor: Thank you for your time and insights. We wish the best of luck to all Angolan athletes competing in the semi-finals and hope to see them make their mark at the championship!
Expert: Thank you, it’s been a pleasure discussing the exciting developments in Angolan MMA. Let’s all cheer them on!