Barebones MMA returns with stacked fight card in Milnerton

The Western Cape’s rising mixed martial arts talent will take centre stage this weekend at the Sunningdale Sports Complex in Milnerton.

Barebones MMA returns for its fifth edition on Saturday, 6 September, featuring 16 amateur fights, including six title bouts and one contender matchup.

Since its inception, Barebones MMA has provided a platform for up-and-coming mixed martial artists from across the Cape, moulding and producing some of the region’s most exciting stars.

One of those athletes is Knockout Centre’s champion, Phillip Cronje, who will face Elite Gym’s Ezrah Parrang in the Men’s Lightweight Title fight — the evening’s main event. The card will open with a Youth A Featherweight bout between Ashiq Rhode (House of Warriors) and Hopefield’s Austin Armstrong, with the action starting at 3.20pm.

The co-main event sees the Performance Institute’s Steve Kassakula take on Titans MMA’s Pietie Lubbe in the Men’s Middleweight Title fight.

In the only women’s contest of the night, Fighterz Inc.’s Aqeela Salie goes up against Jennifer Ann June Bromwich (Performance Institute) in a Flyweight fight.

One of the most anticipated clashes is the return of explosive striker Reuben Job (Fighterz Inc.), who will meet TroubleMaker’s Juan Conradie for the Men’s Flyweight Title in what promises to be a thrilling showdown.

This will be Barebones MMA’s second event at the Sunningdale Sports Complex since moving from Elite MMA in Melkbosstrand, as the promotion continues to grow in stature.

Despite a challenging build-up, Barebones MMA owner Lyndall Sandenbergh is confident of a successful night.

“This event has been marred by issues with athletes falling ill and being injured. But fortunately, we have still pulled together a banger of a card. We lined up six exciting title fights,” said Sandenbergh, who initially aimed to stage more than 20 bouts.

“With so many of our previous champions turning professional, it is pivotal to create order within the divisions. Active athletes will always take precedence over inactive athletes, and I hope this encourages more fighters to sign up. I want active champions in Barebones MMA, not belt warmers.”

Sandenbergh highlighted Phillip Cronje’s importance to the promotion, calling him “our most active champion to date and the only champion to defend his belt”. She added that this weekend would likely be his final amateur fight.

On the men’s flyweight picture, Sandenbergh acknowledged recent debate. “There has been much controversy online regarding our Flyweight Championship. While I am excited about that division, it is always important to remember this is a sport of discipline and respect. Athletes work incredibly hard, and I have no biases towards fighters or gyms when it comes to matchmaking.

“I truly want all MMA athletes in the Cape to excel and surpass those from other provinces. This growth can only happen if coaches, athletes, promoters and fans all work together.”

Sandenbergh also signalled her excitement for the women’s ranks: “The Ladies’ Flyweight division is one to watch with a title coming soon. This fight is important in determining where these two athletes stand in the rankings for their shot at the ultimate prize.”

Barebones MMA 5 will be the penultimate show of the year, with Barebones MMA 6 scheduled for 8 November.

This Saturday’s event runs from 3.20pm until roughly 10pm. Tickets are available on Quicket. For more information, contact Sandenbergh on 060 378 8934 or follow MzansiMMA and Barebones MMA on Instagram.

Caption: Phillip Cronje defends his Men’s Lightweight Title against Ezrah Parrang in the main event of Barebones MMA 5 in Milnerton.