Representing Rwanda at the PFL Africa Championship on October 18 at BK Arena, James Bizimungu Opio delivered a gritty performance in a hard-fought bout against Uganda’s Isaac Omeda. The fight ended in a unanimous draw, with all three judges scoring it 28-28. Though disappointed by the result, Opio says the experience was a turning point in his journey — one that exposed key areas to improve buth also deepened his commitment to return stronger and more prepared in future matchups. ALSO READ:James Opio returns home to battle for Rwanda Despite the draw, Opio remained grounded and self-aware, recognizing both the progress he’s made and the work that lies ahead, pointing to areas where he felt challenged, particularly around recovery and cardio, which became more evident during the bout. “I just need to go back and train more and more. This is just the beginning. After the ring, I think my recovery wasn’t good enough, even if the judges ruled the fight a draw, I also see the challenges and weaknesses I need to focus on,” Opio said. The Uganda-based MMA fighter is already planning his return to camp, determined to put in the work over the next few months to come back as a completer and more dominant fighter. “I believe I’ll be better in five months, better than this. Next time, we can’t leave it to the judges. It has to be a knockout.” ALSO READ: Kigali shines as PFL Africa delivers action-packed semifinals Beyond the fight itself, Opio opened up about the struggles of being a self-supported athlete. From training costs to coaching and balancing work and life, he revealed the reality of pushing forward with limited resources. “I’m currently supporting myself by paying for my training, my coaches. Sometimes I have to skip sessions because there’s no money, champions aren’t born, they’re made, and I know I can become better if I train in a proper camp,” he explained. Opio also appealed to potential sponsors and supporters with sincerity and resolve while promising his fans and fellow Rwandans a determination and hope for a better return. “I just keep requesting your support. Any sponsors out there — please take hold of my hand and support me, and to all my friends from Rwanda, don’t lose hope. I’m going back to camp, and I’m coming back stronger.”
