By Joe Aura, aurajoe6@gmail.com
For most Kenyan fight fans, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) exists only on screens. Whether it’s playing EA Sports UFC 5 on PlayStation 5, watching highlight reels on YouTube, or catching live fights via UFC Fight Pass and ESPN+, the sport is an adrenaline-fueled spectacle enjoyed from the comfort of home. The UFC, the world’s biggest MMA promotion, is a staple in Kenya’s sports entertainment scene, but Kenyan fighters competing at an elite level? That’s a rare story.
That changed when Ouhsummer Ali Abad, better known as “Ninja Turtle,” stepped into the cage for his professional MMA debut at the Blood Warriors Championship in Kampala, Uganda. The Nairobi-based fighter did not just show up—he dominated.
Ninja Turtle’s Unstoppable Debut
In the co-main event at Club Obligato, Ouhsummer faced Sserunjoji Samson Viper, an undefeated MMA fighter with a 4-0 record and an impressive 18-3 kickboxing background. But statistics meant nothing once the cage door shut.
The fight began with an explosive exchange on the feet, but Ouhsummer’s strategy quickly became evident—control the fight on the ground. As the East Africa BJJ Champion and a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), he expertly transitioned into grappling, taking Sserunjoji down with ease. Within two minutes of the first round, Ouhsummer locked in a flawless armbar submission, forcing his opponent to tap out.
It was a statement victory, proving that Kenya is not just a spectator in the world of combat sports—it’s a rising force.
More Than Just a Fighter
Ouhsummer’s versatility in combat sports sets him apart. In addition to his BJJ dominance, he boasts a 3-0 professional kickboxing record, making him a rare breed of fighter who excels in both striking and grappling.
His win sparked excitement among Kenyan fight enthusiasts, proving that homegrown talent can make waves in international MMA. Analysts and fans alike praised his technique, speed, and composure under pressure.
“This was the fight of the night,” one commentator noted. “He’s not just an MMA fighter—he’s a martial artist in the truest sense.”
Kenya’s Growing Combat Sports Scene
Beyond Ouhsummer’s success, Kenya’s combat sports community is experiencing steady growth. Self-defense academies, BJJ gyms, and MMA training centers are popping up across Nairobi, offering training to both aspiring fighters and everyday individuals looking to learn practical self-defense.
One such hub is the Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy, where Ouhsummer serves as an Assistant Head Instructor. Located at New Muthaiga Mall in Westlands, the academy provides BJJ and self-defense training for all skill levels. With the rise of such facilities, martial arts is no longer just entertainment—it’s a tool for empowerment and community safety.
Ouhsummer Ali Abad’s electrifying debut signals a new chapter for Kenyan MMA. The dream of seeing a Kenyan fighter compete on the UFC stage is now closer than ever.
References
KenyanVibe. (2024). Kenyan Fighter Ouhsummer Ali Abad “Ninja Turtle” Dominates in MMA Debut at Blood Warriors Championship