The BRAVE CF Bantamweight Championship will be fiercely contested at BRAVE CF 96 in Ljubljana, Slovenia, where reigning champion Nicholas Hwende faces one of the most intense challenges of his career against Serbian striker Borislav Nikolić. In what’s shaping up to be one of the most personal co-main events in BRAVE Combat Federation history, fireworks are expected as these two polar-opposite fighters clash for divisional supremacy.

Champion Hwende promises five-round war

Nicholas Hwende, known for his brutal pace and ruthless fighting style, isn’t hiding his intentions ahead of the fight. With every media appearance, he’s promised to deliver not just a win, but a punishing display of dominance. “Coming into this fight thinking you can knock me out isn’t safe,” Hwende warned. “He better be prepared for five rounds of hard labour. I want a fight that people will talk about.”

Hwende has carved a path to the top through sheer aggression, weaponized cardio, and mental toughness. Every title defense has been a showcase of raw violence and a statement to the rest of the bantamweight division. But Borislav Nikolić offers a new threat: measured, focused, and incredibly durable.

Nikolić’s cool confidence meets relentless pressure

In contrast to Hwende’s explosive presence, Nikolić remains composed. The Serbian challenger is unfazed by the champion’s bravado, offering a chillingly confident response. “He thinks it’s going to be an interesting fight,” Nikolić said. “But he isn’t a fighter like that. If he can go the distance — then it’s going to be my win.”

Nikolić’s strengths lie in his technical striking, sharp counter-attacks, and elite-level cardio. While Hwende seeks chaos, Nikolić thrives in calculated exchanges. The result is a stylistic matchup that fans are salivating over — the brawler versus the tactician, emotion versus precision.

This showdown isn’t just for the belt — it’s a battle of fighting philosophies, pride, and legacy. As the co-main event of what’s being called the most stacked card in Slovenian MMA history, BRAVE CF 96 promises to be unforgettable.

Fans can catch every second of the action live on BRAVE TV, as two warriors collide in a bout destined to reshape the future of the bantamweight division.