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Africa vs Brazil at EFC 123: A Collision of Combat Cultures
May 8 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Africa vs Brazil at EFC 123: A Collision of Combat Cultures
On May 8, 2025, the Hexagon erupts with fire as EFC 123 delivers a high-stakes international fight card at the World Sports Betting Arena in Johannesburg, South Africa. This is not just an event — it’s a collision of combat cultures, where Africa’s fiercest MMA warriors defend their turf against a wave of elite Brazilian talent, with national pride, legacy, and championship gold at stake.
JC Lamprecht vs Luis Paulo Picanço – Main Event: Legacy on the Line
The brutal EFC Light Heavyweight Champion, JC Lamprecht, returns to defend his belt and his legacy. Known for his savage pace and finishing power, JC’s only pro loss was to UFC champ Dricus du Plessis. Standing in his path is Brazil’s Luis Paulo Picanço, a ferocious striker from Pará, ready to leave a mark and shake up the division.
Amanda “Mad Dog” Lino vs Mariana Salles – The Comeback Queen vs The Knockout Queen
Former flyweight queen Amanda Lino steps back into the spotlight in a high-stakes clash against Mariana Salles, Brazil’s knockout machine. Lino’s last appearance was against Manon Fiorot, now UFC title contender — a reminder of the level she operates at. With her eyes set on reclaiming gold, Lino must first survive Salles’ calculated destruction.
Willie “The White Lion” van Rooyen vs Kleberson Sousa – Flyweight Gold Awaits
With the flyweight title vacated by Edson Machavane, two top contenders now fight for the crown. Undefeated Willie van Rooyen, known as The White Lion, faces Brazil’s veteran Kleberson Sousa. It’s youth and hunger versus calm and experience — a bout with destiny written all over it.
Africa’s Proving Ground
For over a decade, the EFC Hexagon has been a battleground where global talents collide. From Ekson’s shocking upsets to Danny Henry and Cyril Asker’s UFC-bound wins, international stars have earned their stripes on African soil. Now, a new Brazilian invasion challenges the continent’s finest, testing the next generation of African MMA legends.
Will Africa’s champions rise and defend the homefront like Soldierboy, Dalcha, and du Plessis once did? Or will Brazil’s warriors once again steal the spotlight — and the gold?
Be there for the war. Be there for the legacy. This is EFC 123.
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