Seven Rustenburg fighters ready for the world stage!

Ready to represent Rustenburg on the international stage! Front from left: Lohan Pieterse and Shayden Bryant. Back from left: Rudolph Botha, Shaun du Preez, Hennie Nel, Jaco Prinsloo, Thomas Pelser and Sensei Brian van Rooyen. The seven fighters have been selected to compete at the RCFA World Championship in Windhoek, Namibia, in October 2026.

Platinum Weekly newspaper | Rustenburg – Seven fighters from Rustenburg Mixed Martial Arts Academy (Rustenburg MMA) have earned the opportunity to represent their academy – and their hometown – at the RCFA World Championship in Windhoek, Namibia, in October 2026.

The selected fighters are Shaun du Preez, Thomas Pelser, Jaco Prinsloo, Rudolph Botha, Lohan Pieterse, Hennie Nel and Shayden Bryant. Their selection marks an exciting new chapter for an academy that has steadily grown from local competition to provincial and national success.

Led by Sensei Brian van Rooyen, Rustenburg MMA is built around discipline, dedication and respect. Van Rooyen’s own martial-arts journey stretches back decades, having achieved his first Dan black belt in 2000 at the age of 18. Today, the Protea Park-based academy trains children and adults in disciplines including Karate, Kickboxing, MMA, Grappling and Self-Defence.

Over the years, Rustenburg MMA fighters have collected numerous podium finishes. Fifteen students were selected to represent North West at the 2024 National Kickboxing Tournament in Potchefstroom, where the academy achieved an impressive 17 podium finishes. Now, seven of its fighters are preparing to take the next big step: international competition.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT NEEDED

Getting seven fighters to a world championship comes with considerable costs, and Rustenburg MMA is appealing to local businesses and individuals for sponsorships or contributions to help make the trip to Namibia possible.

“Rustenburg MMA is a family. These seven fighters have worked incredibly hard for this opportunity, and we would greatly appreciate any company or individual willing to help them compete at the World Championship,” Sensei Brian said.

For sponsorships, contributions or more information about Rustenburg MMA, contact Sensei Brian van Rooyen on 073 074 4184.

From local mats to the world stage, these seven fighters now have the chance to carry the Rustenburg name across the border – and show just how far discipline, determination and hard work can take you.