Zhengzhou: BRAVE Combat Federation (BRAVE CF), recognized as the world's fastest-growing and most global mixed martial arts organization, is set to deliver a thrilling event in China with BRAVE CF 98. The event, in partnership with YFU, marks the third occasion that BRAVE CF will host a major MMA showcase in China. It is scheduled to take place on Friday, September 19, live from the Henan TV Studio 8 in Zhengzhou.
According to Bahrain News Agency, this event will feature a historic match as a BRAVE World Championship will be contested in China for the first time. The main event sees Ukraine's top-ranked contender Omar Solomanov facing off against Kazakhstan's No. 2 contender Rauan "Shymyr" Bekbolat in a highly anticipated rematch for the BRAVE Interim Featherweight World Title. The victor will have the opportunity to challenge the current champion, Nemat "Eagle" Abdrashitov of Kyrgyzstan, in a future unification bout.
The co-main event will see China's own "The Stalker" Xie Bin make his eagerly awaited BRAVE CF debut. Xie, who has competed at the highest levels of the sport, will go up against former BRAVE CF Bantamweight World Champion Nicholas Hwende of Zimbabwe. This Featherweight clash is expected to be a high-stakes battle.
Adding to the excitement on the lead card is the return of No. 5-ranked Super Lightweight contender Khamzat Maaev. Known for his association with global star Khamzat Chimaev, Maaev's comeback is a highlight for fans. The event will also feature the debut of Owais Yaqoob, marking a milestone as the first mixed martial artist from Kashmir to compete in a major international MMA promotion. Indian veteran Kantharaj Agasa is also set to make his return to the BRAVE CF cage after nearly six years, adding another element of suspense to the card.
In addition to these marquee matchups, the event will showcase seven supporting bouts featuring rising Chinese talents eager to compete against elite international fighters. BRAVE CF 98 promises an evening of world-class MMA, aligning with the organization's mission to provide athletes with a platform to excel.