The
South African heavyweight division and particularly the EFC heavyweight
division has had an influx of new fighters. This should make for some
interesting matches going forward and possibly some new additions to this
ranking list in the near future. EFC 13 featured 3 heavyweight bouts containing
3 debutants. There was also a high profile fight between Calven Robinson and
Bernardo Mikixi which directly affected the current heavyweight standings
below.
1. Ruan “Fangzz” Potts (14-0)
In November 2011, Ruan Potts became
the first heavyweight champion to defend his EFC title, when he submitted
dangerous contender Andrew van Zyl. With a 14 fight winning streak, including
notable wins over Norman Wessels, Andrew van Zyl and Calven Robinson, Ruan
Potts is not only the EFC Africa heavyweight champion, but now the #1
heavyweight in South Africa. Unfortunately Potts’ list of potential challengers
is dwindling rapidly, as the champion continues to dominate the division.
2. Rico “White Lion” Hattingh (14–2)
A pioneer of the sport, Hattingh
still remains undefeated in South Africa, having acquired both his losses in
the USA. The Capetonian Heavyweight recently steamrolled Jake Els in his EFC
Africa debut, but was forced to put his title hopes against Potts on hold due
to injury. We hope to see this Juggernaut of South African MMA back in action
soon, where he will no doubt be assured of a title shot and a chance to
showcase his skills to the newer MMA fans.
3. Andrew "One Gear" van Zyl (8-1)
Van Zyl will look to bounce back
after his defeat to Ruan Potts at EFC Africa 11. One Gear, who suffered his
first professional loss to Potts, will take something from the experience and
likely be hungrier than ever. I hope to see a much improved van Zyl upon his
return to the Hexagon.
4. Bernardo “Black Panther” Mikixi (5-3)
Mikixi has had his stats skewed,
largely due to the EFC pitting him against top level opposition with a
regularity not common in South Africa. Bernardo Mikixi was able to defeat
Calven Robinson via TKO at EFC 13 to displace him in the heavyweight rankings
and edge himself closer to another shot at the heavyweight title.
5. Calven “The Butcher” Robinson (8-2)
Calven Robinson returned from
retirement at EFC 13 to face Bernardo Mikixi. The Durban-based heavyweight was
defeated by Mikixi and now holds a 0-2 record in the EFC Hexagon. Both losses
have come via men on this list – Ruan Potts and Bernardo Mikixi.
View all : South African MMA Rankings
View all : South African MMA Rankings
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