By Frank Bonada
During a relatively quiet week for MMA, France’s Delphine Benouaich took center stage, extending her impressive winning streak since turning pro in March 2024.
An eight-fight IMMAF veteran, Benouaich came tantalizingly close to clinching a Senior World title at the 2023 IMMAF World Championships. After defeating three opponents, including the skilled Spaniard Isabel Calvo, she faced off against Brazil’s Giulliany Perêa in the Senior Strawweight final.
Both athletes, widely regarded as two of IMMAF’s top female competitors in recent years, delivered a razor-close, back-and-forth contest, reflected in the judges’ scorecards. Perêa ultimately edged out Benouaich via a split decision, sparking significant debate among MMA fans.
Despite the result, the 2023 IMMAF World Championships marked the conclusion of both athletes’ amateur careers. While Perêa has since signed with Invicta FC, Benouaich has made a notable impact on the French regional circuit. Making her professional debut at KOF Fight Club in March 2024, Benouaich has maintained a relentless schedule.
She has fought five times in seven months, winning each bout emphatically. Her most recent victory took place this past weekend at KOF 8, where she faced Polish veteran Anita Bekus, who has previously competed for KSW and OKTAGON MMA.
Benouaich showcased her striking expertise, displaying the full array of skills she refined during her IMMAF tenure. The judges awarded her a unanimous decision, advancing her record to 5-0 in the professional ranks.
Elsewhere, at EFC 118, 2019 IMMAF Africa Welterweight gold medalist Peace Nguphane (South Africa) secured his sixth professional victory.
Nguphane, known for his explosive athleticism and highlight-reel finishes during his IMMAF career, has carried that reputation into the pro scene, maintaining a perfect 100% finishing rate.
Competing on the main card of EFC 118, Nguphane faced promotional veteran Jason Culverwell. Nguphane’s striking prowess was on full display as he dominated the fight, landing a devastating body shot in the final minute of the first round that crumpled Culverwell, delivering yet another highlight finish.
At Heroes 11, two IMMAF alumni made their mark with statement victories. 2018 IMMAF European Middleweight silver medalist Radu Zarioiu (Romania) improved to 6-1 with a first-round guillotine submission over Alexandru Curcudel.
His fellow Romanian IMMAF alum Marius Florin Șpac also claimed a first-round submission, catching Marius Leahu in a rear-naked choke to advance his record to 2-0.
