From hitching bike rides to IMMAF World Cup Gold: Magloire Mutabi’s incredible MMA journey

Cape Town-based DRC fighter Magloire Mutabi's MMA career has been defined by resilience and determination. Earlier this month, he clinched the 2026 Angola Dipanda Open World Cup Middleweight title at the Kilamba Multipurpose Pavilion in Angola. Organised by the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) and the Angolan Mixed Martial Arts Federation (FAMMA), the tournament, named after Angola's Independence Day, was the first of its kind held in the country.

Mutabi's path to the championship was fraught with challenges. He had to enter the competition alone after his DRC teammates faced issues at the Angolan border. Recalling his struggles at the 2025 IMMAF Africa Championships, Mutabi decided to bypass the team travel and fly directly to Angola, using his savings from working as an Uber driver.

Upon arrival in Luanda, he faced further difficulties when the DRC team was denied entry due to paperwork and medical issues. Despite the federation cancelling their participation, Mutabi pursued the opportunity with IMMAF, ultimately securing a visa.

The gruelling journey continued as Mutabi had to make weight early in the morning, barely getting any sleep before the event. Despite these obstacles, he claimed the Middleweight title, carrying the DRC flag and dedicating his victory to the team members unable to attend. Mutabi acknowledged the support he received from various quarters, including his coach, Don Madge, and IMMAF officials like Jason Brown, who facilitated his travel with his connections.

Despite opposition from some, Mutabi remains committed to the IMMAF platform, believing it provides a world-class experience that prepares fighters for professional competition.