BRAVE CF returns to China with BRAVE CF 98, spotlighting local MMA talent

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BRAVE CF 98 fight card promises global and local star power.

BRAVE Combat Federation is set to return to China for the third time, staging BRAVE CF 98 on Friday, Sept. 19, at the Henan TV Studio 8 in Zhengzhou in partnership with YFU. The move underscores the nation’s martial arts tradition while offering a platform for its untapped MMA talent.

“BRAVE CF can provide Chinese athletes an opportunity to measure their talents with world-class fighters, as well as a global platform to showcase their skills,” said BRAVE CF President Mohammed Shahid.

China has long been regarded as a cradle of martial arts, with over 60 distinct fighting disciplines — including Kung Fu and Sanda — and a combat tradition dating back more than 4,000 years. BRAVE CF’s presence marks a strategic effort to harness that foundation and prepare the next generation of global MMA contenders.

Chinese MMA hopefuls gear up for their international showcase at Henan TV Studio 8.

Xie Bin debut headlines Chinese talent showcase

The card’s co-main event features “The Stalker” Xie Bin making his long-awaited BRAVE CF debut against former bantamweight world champion Nicholas Hwende of Zimbabwe in a high-stakes featherweight bout. Xie’s veteran savvy will be tested against Hwende’s proven championship pedigree.

Beyond the co-main, BRAVE CF 98 will highlight seven additional bouts featuring emerging Chinese fighters eager to prove themselves against elite international opposition. For many, it is not just another fight but a benchmark against the world’s finest and a chance to announce their arrival on the global stage.

“This card will feature everything from a world title showdown to the rise of future Asian MMA superstars — athletes with the potential to become the next Khamzat Chimaev or Ilia Topuria,” Shahid said. “On September 19, MMA fans worldwide will witness China’s finest talents on display.”

China’s MMA market, despite its massive martial arts community, has seen limited international exposure. Through its partnership with YFU, BRAVE CF intends to fill the gap and anchor itself as the premier global promotion bringing consistent MMA action to Chinese fans.

“Our goal in every market is to help develop MMA as an industry, and China is no exception,” Shahid added. “With our third event in the country, I am confident we will soon witness tremendous growth for the sport here.”