Omar Solomanov believes his time as interim champion is over as he prepares for the biggest fight of his BRAVE Combat Federation career at BRAVE CF 105 in Kazakhstan.

The Ukrainian standout will headline the event on May 31 at the Baluan Sholak Sports Palace in Almaty, where he faces former bantamweight champion Nicholas Hwende for the vacant undisputed featherweight world championship. The matchup places two proven BRAVE CF veterans on a collision course with championship history on the line.

Solomanov enters the title fight carrying a 14-3 professional record built on aggressive striking and disciplined finishes. Eight of his victories came by knockout, while three others ended via submission, further establishing him as one of the most dangerous featherweights in the promotion.

Title fight legacy awaits

The interim featherweight champion earned his breakthrough moment at BRAVE CF 98 in September 2025 after defeating Kazakh fighter Rauan “Shymyr” Bekbolat in their highly anticipated rematch.

Solomanov controlled the five-round contest en route to a unanimous decision victory that secured the interim title and elevated his status inside the division. Since then, the Ukrainian contender has repeatedly made it clear that he no longer wants to be associated with temporary championship labels.

“Every fight at this level strips away illusion. I have carried the interim designation long enough. On May 31, I intend to leave no ambiguity and take my place as the true champion of this division,” Solomanov said.

The 145-pound contender has won five of his last six fights entering BRAVE CF 105. His recent performances showcased calculated pressure, technical precision, and composure under difficult exchanges against experienced opposition.

“This is not a stepping stone or a transitional label for me. I have proven myself repeatedly against elite opposition. I am here to erase any perception that I am anything less than the man who rules this division,” he added.

Hwende eyes history

Standing opposite Solomanov will be a dangerous and experienced challenger in Hwende, who already owns championship credentials inside BRAVE CF.

The Zimbabwean fighter carries a 10-2 professional record and has competed six times under the BRAVE banner, winning four of those appearances. Hwende previously held the BRAVE CF bantamweight world title and now has the opportunity to become a rare two-division champion.

His featherweight debut came during BRAVE CF 98 against Xie Bin, where he displayed disciplined striking and tactical control to secure a unanimous decision victory.

Hwende’s experience in championship situations adds another layer of intrigue to the main event, especially with both fighters attempting to leave a permanent mark on the division.

Despite Hwende’s accomplishments, Solomanov remains fully focused on claiming the undisputed championship and solidifying his place atop the featherweight ranks.

“I respect what he has achieved, but this moment belongs to me. I am not traveling to Almaty to share history or witness someone else’s legacy being written. I am going there to seize it,” Solomanov stated.