LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA – June 7, 2025 – BRAVE Fight Federation returns to the enduring Hala Tivoli in Ljubljana for BRAVE CF 96, in partnership with regional powerhouse WFC. Marking its fifth go to to Slovenia and the primary because the record-breaking BRAVE CF 88, the occasion continues the “12 months of the BRAVE” marketing campaign with a high-stakes bantamweight co-main occasion that places continental pleasure on the road.
Zimbabwe’s Nicholas “The Saint” Hwende (9-1-0) will defend his Bantamweight World Championship towards Serbia’s surging contender Borislav Nikolić (12-2-0) in a bout that represents excess of gold. It’s a conflict of momentum, id, and regional illustration.
Hwende: From Zimbabwe to International Champion
Hwende’s rise via the BRAVE CF ranks has been a narrative of perseverance. After shedding his promotional debut to Velimurad Alkhasov at BRAVE CF 71 in 2023, he bounced again with three straight wins, culminating in a dominant victory over Nkosi Ndebele at BRAVE CF 91 to seize the bantamweight crown.
His explosive placing and polished grappling have made him some of the well-rounded champions on the roster. Hwende’s journey from Africa to the highest of the BRAVE CF world serves as a beacon of inspiration.
“I struggle for my folks. Each win is a win for Zimbabwe and for Africa,” Hwende has mentioned in previous interviews.
Nikolić: Serbia’s Title Hope Rises
Borislav Nikolić arrives with momentum and confidence, using a three-fight win streak. His most spectacular outing got here at BRAVE CF 84, the place he completed Chinese language prospect Eqiyuebu within the first spherical, cementing his place among the many high contenders.
Nikolić brings an aggressive, high-pressure fashion to the cage—one constructed on knockout energy and good pacing. A win would make him Serbia’s first BRAVE CF world champion and a logo of the nation’s rising affect in world MMA.
Extra Than Only a Title Struggle
The matchup represents a cultural and aggressive crossroads. Hwende seeks to defend not solely his belt however his position as a logo of African excellence in MMA. Nikolić is out to say gold and elevate Serbian MMA onto the world stage.
Their contrasting types—Hwende’s tactical dynamism and Nikolić’s relentless offense—set the stage for a can’t-miss showdown within the coronary heart of Europe.
As BRAVE CF continues increasing its world footprint, BRAVE CF 96 is poised to ship one other unforgettable chapter. Whether or not Hwende’s reign continues or Nikolić ushers in a brand new period, the ripple results can be felt far past the cage.
Keep tuned to BRAVECF.com and BRAVE CF’s social platforms for broadcast data, undercard bulletins, and unique struggle week protection.
Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Government Author, Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a ardour for Fight Sports activities and likewise a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s additionally a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer.
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