Date/Time: Saturday 06.07.2025 at 12:00 PM ET
Promotion: BRAVE Combat Federation
Venue: Hala Tivoli
Location: Ljubljana, Slovenia
MMA Bouts: 9
BRAVE CF 96: Erko Jun vs Mohammad Fakhreddine – A Clash of Titans for the Middleweight Crown
BRAVE Combat Federation returns to Slovenia on Saturday, June 7, 2025, with BRAVE CF 96 set to electrify the Hala Tivoli in Ljubljana. In collaboration with local promotion WFC, this event marks BRAVE CF’s fifth visit to Slovenia, following two sold-out shows in 2024 that elevated MMA to national prominence in the country.
The main event features a blockbuster Middleweight World Championship bout between reigning Light Heavyweight champion Erko Jun of Bosnia and Herzegovina and former two-division champion Mohammad Fakhreddine of Lebanon. Jun, undefeated in BRAVE CF with three consecutive finishes, captured the Light Heavyweight title in Slovenia and now aims to become the second simultaneous two-division champion in the organization’s history. Fakhreddine, the only fighter to have held two BRAVE CF titles simultaneously, seeks to reclaim the Middleweight crown he never lost in the cage and solidify his legacy as a three-time world champion.
Jun’s rise has been meteoric. Since his professional debut in 2018, he has amassed a 9-2 record, with all his BRAVE CF victories coming by stoppage. His most recent triumph, a fourth-round TKO over Alexander Wesner at BRAVE CF 88, secured him the Light Heavyweight title. Now, he looks to replicate that success in the Middleweight division, aiming to make history on Slovenian soil once again.
Fakhreddine, known as “The Latest,” is a seasoned veteran with a 17-5 record. His return to BRAVE CF at BRAVE CF 92 was marked by a dominant TKO victory over Abdel Rahmane Driai, signaling his readiness to reclaim the Middleweight title. Fakhreddine’s career is highlighted by his ability to overcome adversity, including becoming the first BRAVE CF fighter to hold titles in two weight classes simultaneously.
The anticipation for this bout has been building since Fakhreddine’s post-fight callout at BRAVE CF 92, where he challenged Jun, stating, “I know Erko is looking to become a double-weight champion… but Erko, I’m going to have to spoil the plan for you, brother.” Jun responded enthusiastically, accepting the challenge and setting the stage for this historic showdown.
With fighters from 11 nations represented, BRAVE CF 96 underscores the organization’s commitment to global MMA. The event is part of the “Year of the BRAVE” campaign, aiming to spotlight elite talent across continents and expand BRAVE CF’s mission of inclusivity in combat sports.
BRAVE CF 96: Hwende Defends BRAVE CF Bantamweight World Championship Against Serbia’s Nikolic
[s title=”Learn More……”][p]BRAVE Combat Federation returns with BRAVE CF 96 to the iconic Hala Tivoli in Ljubljana, Slovenia on June 7, 2025. The co-main event showcases Zimbabwe’s Nicholas “The Saint” Hwende (9-1-0) defending his Bantamweight World Championship against Serbia’s Borislav Nikoli? (12-2-0). This bout not only tests Hwende’s reign but also highlights BRAVE CF’s commitment to showcasing elite talent on the global stage. The event held at the Hala Tivoli in partnership with leading regional promotion WFC marks the promotion’s fifth visit to Slovenia and its first since the record-setting BRAVE CF 88 in September 2024.
Hwende’s journey from Zimbabwe to the pinnacle of BRAVE CF epitomizes resilience and determination. After a setback in his promotional debut against Velimurad Alkhasov at BRAVE CF 71 in 2023, Hwende rebounded with a trio of impressive victories, culminating in a dominant performance against Nkosi Ndebele at BRAVE CF 91 to claim the Bantamweight title. His blend of striking prowess and grappling acumen has made him a formidable champion and a symbol of African excellence in MMA.
Nikoli? enters this title fight riding a wave of momentum. With a three-fight winning streak, including a first-round stoppage of Chinese standout Eqiyuebu at BRAVE CF 84, Nikoli? has showcased his finishing capabilities and tactical versatility. His ascent in the Bantamweight rankings positions him as a legitimate threat to Hwende’s reign.
This matchup is more than a title defense; it’s a collision of narratives. Hwende, the trailblazing African champion, seeks to solidify his legacy and inspire a continent. Nikoli? aims to bring the Bantamweight crown to Serbia, marking a significant milestone for his nation’s presence in global MMA. Hwende’s dynamic striking and grappling versus Nikoli?’s aggressive offense promise an electrifying contest.
As BRAVE CF continues its “Year of the BRAVE” campaign, this bout epitomizes the organization’s dedication to high-stakes, international matchups. The outcome will not only determine the Bantamweight division’s hierarchy but also influence the sport’s growth in Africa and Europe. Fans worldwide eagerly anticipate whether Hwende will continue his inspirational reign or if Nikoli? will usher in a new era for Serbian MMA.
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by mmavk.com