The EFC Returns to Cape Town

By: Kim Kay

Knox Legacy Series to Debut in February 2026

The EFC will return to Cape Town as the Knox Legacy Series launches on 26 February 2026 at the GrandWest Grand Arena. This marks the first event in a new fight series and will open the EFC calendar for 2026.

A Major Moment for Local MMA

The Knox Legacy Series will give South African fighters the chance to step into the spotlight. It also brings a high-profile combat sports event back to the Mother City, where the MMA fanbase continues to grow.

Knox Hydrate founders Ethan Hughes and Dricus du Plessis joined EFC president Cairo Howarth and Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis for the announcement.

Hill-Lewis said Cape Town is proud to host the event. “There is a huge fanbase in Cape Town. We know there will be strong support, and we know it will be broadcast nationally and internationally. Cape Town is the events capital of South Africa.”

He added that events like this support the city’s mission to grow the events economy and strengthen Cape Town’s position as a world-class host. “We want to show that Cape Town can host a UFC title bout with you, Dricus, in the future.”

Dricus du Plessis: A Vision for SA MMA

Du Plessis highlighted the deeper purpose behind the series.

“This event not only represents the fight or the fighters. For me, this is a vision. From the first day I started MMA, I knew I wanted to do this professionally. I have never had another job in my life.”

He said he wants to give other fighters opportunities he never had. “I know how hard it is to make it in this sport. I want to give back to the sport that gave me everything. We want to show the world that we can host a world-class event.”

Cape Town Fighters in the Spotlight

Cape Town will be well represented on the card. Local athletes confirmed so far include:

• “Troublemaker” Faeez Jacobs (Current 3x EFC Bantamweight Champion)
• Luke Michael (Men’s Middleweight Champion)
• Terrence Balo
• Tumelo “Mellow” Manyamala
• Adriaan Sanchez

They will take on a line-up of international opponents, to be announced in the coming weeks.

Cape Town Set for a High-Energy Showcase

With strong local talent, global attention and a renewed drive to grow the sport, the Knox Legacy Series promises to set the tone for a standout year in South African MMA.