By Michael Uugwanga
Namibia’s top male Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter, Veja Hinda, says he is ready to take on South Africa’s Coenie Lamprecht at the Extreme Fighting Championship (EFC) on 5 November at the Sports Betting Arena in Johannesburg, South Africa.
EFC is one of the largest MMA organisations on the African continent, featuring more than 150 exclusively contracted professional fighters from around the world.
The organisation broadcasts its live events and programming to more than 120 countries, with Namibian fans able to watch the action through MultiChoice’s SuperSport channels.
Speaking to Confidente this week, the confident Hinda said he is eager to add a third professional victory to his record.
The Namibian has won both of his professional fights so far and will now face what could be his biggest test yet.
Lamprecht, however, is expected to provide a stern challenge, having established himself as a capable fighter with a strong grappling background.
“I will be competing against Coenie (Lamprecht), who is very well known to be a very skilled grappler.
As far as game planning goes, I have good takedown defence and just need to hit him fast and hard.
It’s a typical striker-versus-wrestler match-up,” said Hinda when asked about his opponent.
Hinda’s preparations for the bout are progressing well, with the fighter aware that a victory could potentially open the door to bigger opportunities and a major contract.
Lamprecht has a professional record of four fights, with three wins and one loss, and is ranked 11th in South Africa’s professional men’s flyweight division.
Hinda is also a two-time International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) African champion.
“Preparations are still underway, however, I’m feeling mentally and physically strong for this next fight. I will be fighting at EFC 139. This will be my first time ever fighting on the main card as a professional athlete. That means international scouts and more exposure globally.
“The energy in the gym has been pretty normal, but good. Everyone needs to keep a cool head and remain focused on the task at hand,” said Hinda.
