Hamza Kooheji embraces Bahrain pride ahead of BRAVE CF 100 title shot

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When BRAVE Combat Federation stages its milestone BRAVE CF 100 in Isa Town, Bahrain, the moment marks a historic homecoming for the promotion—and no one embodies that significance more than Hamza Kooheji. A pioneer of Bahrain’s MMA rise, Kooheji has been part of the journey since BRAVE CF 1, building alongside the brand and the Kingdom’s martial arts movement.

Now, with a 14-3 record and riding a three-fight winning streak, he finally stands on the doorstep of a world title. But for Kooheji, the moment means far more than a championship belt.

“This is a make-or-break fight for me,” he said during BRAVE CF 100 Media Day. “This is the most important fight of my career. It’s not only for me. It’s for Bahrain. It’s for a greater goal than me.”

Hamza Kooheji prepares for his homecoming title shot at BRAVE CF 100.

Fighting for more than a belt

Often called The Pride of Bahrain, Kooheji has learned to lean into that responsibility rather than feel pressured by it. He views it as fuel for the battle ahead, saying, “It’s an honour to be called the Pride of Bahrain. It gives me more power, strength, and confidence to fight for the people of Bahrain.”

His opponent, Serbia’s Borislav Nikolić, enters as the newly crowned BRAVE CF Bantamweight World Champion, making his first defense on November 7. Nikolić carries the title, but Kooheji carries something just as powerful—the unwavering support of an entire nation ready to witness history at home.

Still, despite the spotlight, the humble contender remains grounded. “I don’t like to fight in main events honestly,” he shared. “But when it’s given to me, I take it with honour.”

A homecoming years in the making

From early regional circuits to global platforms, Kooheji has been a central figure in Bahrain’s combat sports story. BRAVE CF 100 symbolizes the evolution of both athlete and nation, and for Kooheji, it represents a chance to stand at the peak of the empire he helped build.

This isn’t just another fight. It’s a return to where it all began—a moment to cement his legacy not only as a champion, but as a national icon who helped elevate Bahrain onto the world MMA stage.