Share

Scotland's Henry steps in to face 'Smiley' Kabesa

Johannesburg - Scotland's Danny Henry made headlines when he handed Boyd Allen his first ever loss in EFC. Now fate has turned in his favour as he steps in to replace an injured Allen and steps in to face Igeu 'Smiley' Kabesa.

According to the EFC website, stepping in on late notice, he not only gets the chance to seek vengeance against his defeat to Kabesa, but also has the opportunity to claim EFC gold in the process.

Former champion and number one contender, Allen, has withdrawn from his featherweight title fight against Kabesa with a wrist injury. Allen was preparing for the title fight in Miami, Florida at the famous American Top Team when the injury occurred.

When reached for comment, Allen stated, "Injuries are normal and unfortunately I have learnt that you should never fight if your body isn't ready."

Allen added his thoughts on the Kabesa v Henry rematch, "It will be interesting to see how both fighters have progressed since their first fight."

This sets up potentially the biggest rematch in recent memory, between the undefeated champion, Kabesa, and the former champion, Scotsman Henry. It has been noted that Allen will most likely face the winner when he is ready to compete again.

Since claiming the championship from Henry, Kabesa has defended the title against Hanru Botha in stunning fashion, with a first round submission and solidified his hold on the title and division. Meanwhile, since their first meeting, Henry has dispatched two former title challengers with spectacular striking.

"It's never good to hear about a fighter getting injured, but this is the fight I've worked hard for a deserve," stated Henry.

He continued, "I'm going to make the most of this opportunity in March and snatch my belt back!"

Two second round TKOs cemented Henry as the top contender.

However, it was Kabesa's wrestling that was his undoing in the first clash. Has Henry fixed this weakness in his armour or has he and his team figured out the conundrum that is Kabesa?

This fight takes place as the main event on a stacked fight card featuring many of organisation's best athletes including the heavyweight collision between Zimbabwe's Elvis Moyo and South Africa's Mike Vermeulen.

EFC 57 will take place on Saturday, March 4.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE