Cameroon-born fighter and Professional Fighters League (PFL) Africa Chairman Francis Ngannou arrived in Rwanda on Friday, October 17 ans met with Rwanda Development Board (RDB) CEO Jean-Guy Afrika and sports minister Nelly Mukazayire, ahead of the PFL Africa semifinals scheduled for Saturday, October 18, at BK Arena.

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The meeting focused on Rwanda’s growing reputation as a hub for global sporting events, talent development, and sports-driven investment opportunities across the continent.

The 39-year-old mixed martial artist and professional boxer will officially inaugurate the first-ever PFL Africa semifinals hosted in East Africa.

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Ngannou, renowned for his knockout power, has transformed from global champion to visionary executive. After claiming the PFL Super Fights Heavyweight title with a first-round knockout last year, Ngannou shifted his focus toward leadership, becoming Chairman and equity owner of PFL Africa.

His journey from working in a sand quarry in Cameroon and living homeless in Paris to becoming a world champion fuels his mission to create opportunities for African athletes to build professional careers without leaving the continent.

The Kigali semifinals mark a major step in realising that vision, featuring emerging fighters from across Africa, including talents nurtured through Ngannou’s own foundation.