BLOOMINGTON, Minn. – There’s no denying Africa’s presence in the UFC has become palpable. Over the past two years, breakthrough stars Kamaru Usman, Israel Adesanya, and Francis Ngannou have taken center stage, and Africa has emerged as a major player in MMA.
Newly signed UFC light heavyweight Dalcha Lungiambula (9-1 MMA, 0-0 UFC) said he’s ready to continue the continent’s momentum when he makes his octagon debut against fellow newcomer Dequan Townsend (21-8 MMA, 0-0 UFC) at UFC on ESPN 3, which takes place Saturday at Target Center in Minneapolis and airs on ESPN.
“It was a dream and I’m so excited for my dream come true,” Lungiambula told MMA Junkie. “I was just thinking it. Years ago I was sitting and thinking of how much I might get to the UFC. Then some inspiration inside of me posted on Facebook, ‘I don’t know how I can get there. I don’t know when … I do my thing, so I’m ready to make Africa proud.”
Africa has succeeded in MMA competition abroad, but its domestic scene and local gyms are still developing. Lungiambula, who represents South Africa, said he hopes to help aid the sport in reaching the next level.
“I do like maybe to come to America to get experience,” Lungiambula said. “Train with some people and get some experience, but I want to live in Africa. … I love the spirit of Africa.”
He hasn’t fought yet, but Lungiambula’s UFC tenure has already been a rollercoaster. Earlier this week, Lungiambula dodged a bullet when his original opponent Justin Ledet pulled out. Luckily for Lungiambula, the promotion found a replacement on four days’ notice.
“(The change) doesn’t affect me too much, because I’m ready,” Lungiambula said. “I’m ready to face anyone, anytime, anywhere. That’s me … All of my fans in Africa are waiting. That sheer excitement I’m jumping into the UFC for (the) first time. And to hear there was no fight, that was bad. I’m so happy and thanks for my opponent to accept to get my fight on short notice. I really appreciate.”
No matter the opponent, Lungiambula believes he’ll make a statement to the 205-pound division in his debut fight at UFC on ESPN 3.
“I’m here to change my life and nobody is going to stop me to change my life,” Lungiambula said. “I’m here to be champion. I believe Africa is the king. I believe also, I’ll be the king. Nothing will stop me from achieving my goal.”
For more on UFC on ESPN 3, check out the UFC Rumors section of the site.
