BRAVE CF is taking a massive swing. The promotion is betting on three of the world’s most populous countries by focusing on India, China, and Pakistan. This is a high-risk, high-reward strategy. BRAVE CF 85 takes place on August 18 as a part of the BRAVE International Combat Week. The first visit of the BRAVE Combat Federation to Pakistan happened in 2018. This is the first time Pakistan will host BRAVE International Combat Week 2024, marking a significant milestone for MMA in the country and the region.
The Numbers Game
The numbers don’t lie. India, China, and Pakistan boast billions of potential fans left unexplored by competitors such as UFC, PFL, and ONE Championship. Combat sports and martial arts resonate with these cultures being a part of folklore and popular culture. BRAVE CF is tapping into a goldmine. Even if the global promotion based out of Bahrain could capture a percentage of the population, it elevates the valuation beyond expectations.
The return of BRAVE Combat Federation to Pakistan after nearly six years showcases a much-anticipated fight card with two Indian fighters facing Pakistani athletes on Pakistani soil. Apart from the cross-border rivalry, top MMA fighters from around the world will compete during the fight night. Following this, the IMMAF Asian Championships will kickstart from August 18 to 22. This is the first time Pakistan will host these championships, marking a significant milestone for MMA in the country and the region. MMA will be bigger than ever if BRAVE CF can foster rivalries and create stars from these regions.
Star-studded Fight Card
Developing these markets will take a lot of work from the grassroots level. The competition is fierce. Infrastructure needs improvement. Local talent must be nurtured. BRAVE CF faces a steep uphill climb. BRAVE CF 85 will feature the next generation of MMA superstars on display with the likes of Omar Solomanov, Rauan Bekbolat, Eliezer Kubanza, Murad Guseinov, and Mojtaba Nasiri. Featherweight stars Omar Solomanov and Rauan Bekbolat headline the fight card. African star Eliezer Kubanza will aim to maintain his undefeated record against former Kyrgyz armed forces veteran Salamat Orozakunov. Indian MMA veterans Bharat Khandare and Srikant Sekhar will defend their nation’s honor against Zia Mashwani and Rizwan Ali.
BRAVE CF is taking a major leap by bringing the greatest MMA event in Pakistan. Imagine a world where MMA is as popular in India as cricket. Or where Chinese fighters headline pay-per-view events. It’s a long shot, but BRAVE CF is taking the gamble. Beyond the sheer numbers, these markets represent massive untapped potential. Major combat sports promotions have historically overlooked these regions similar to the continent of Africa. BRAVE CF is positioning itself as a pioneer.
BRAVE CF 85 Full Fight Card
