Latest news with #InternationalMixedMartialArtsFederation
The Citizen
19-05-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Northcliff High MMA prodigy strikes gold and hearts
From the gym mats of his family's grappling academy, to the international stage, Caleb Swart's journey is a story of will. The Northcliff High School student recently seized the spotlight by winning a gold medal in the youth A welterweight 77.1kg division at the prestigious International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) Africa Championships in Angola this past May. Read more: Judo star's strength and skill rewarded But for Caleb, this victory is far more than a medal; it's a milestone on a path he has been walking steadily since childhood. Guided by his father and coach, Wiekus Swart, Caleb's training regime is intense and disciplined, spanning five to six hours most days of the week, and blending strength, fitness, wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and Muay Thai. 'We spar daily, grapple, and drill a variety of MMA techniques,' Caleb shared. Yet amidst the grind, there's a heartfelt dedication. 'This gold medal confirms that all the hard work and dedication I've put in is paying off. It motivates me to focus even more on the world championships in Abu Dhabi in July.' Also read: Seido Karate Johannesburg student shows her moves MMA has been a cornerstone of Caleb's life since he was five years old. Growing up immersed in a family environment where Brazilian jiu-jitsu and MMA were part of everyday life, he embraced the sport, not just as a competitor, but as a source of confidence and life lessons. 'MMA has taught me that discipline and focus truly pay off. In the cage, there's very little luck. What you put in is what you get out.' His love for the sport was first sparked when he watched his father referee EFC matches on TV, and later, through the exhilaration of attending events, meeting fighters, and even assisting backstage. 'I've always been incredibly physical and love activities where I can express that energy. MMA felt like the perfect fit.' Now, with the world championships and beyond in his sights, he is forging a path of greatness, dominating on the mat. Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! Related article: Faith – the judo warrior
IOL News
06-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Angola dominate on day one of IMMAF Africa Champs
STRONG START It was a great day for Mauritian MMA as Aveer Jootun secured the nation's first gold at the IMMAF Africa Championships in the Youth B (72kg) division after beating Angola's Dinis Dinga Bravo (left) in a closely contested battle. | IMMAF Team Angola lived up to its reputation as a dominant force within global mixed martial arts by topping the charts on day one of the IMMAF Africa Championships yesterday in the capital city of Luanda. With a proud fighting history, the host nation regularly enters by far the biggest team into the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation's flagship tournament on the continent. However, nothing can be taken away from the skill and heart showcased on the day as Team Angola secured 21 medals (10 gold, 10 silver, and one bronze) in the Youth B & C section. Down at the Pavilhão Multiusos do Kilamba, some familiar faces shone once again for the Republic including Gisela Luna and Claudio Fontoura who claimed their second IMMAF Africa Gold medals after shining in Windhoek, Namibia, last year. In the tournament's opening bout, 13-year-old Luna, who faced fellow Angolan Monica Cardoso, showcased dominant grappling throughout, controlling the pace and leaving Cardoso with limited opportunities.
