JOHANNESBURG — Zimbabwean MMA star Lewis “Porcupine” Mataya has emerged victorious from a fierce three-round battle against South Africa’s Ayanda Zwane at EFC 137.

Mataya was declared the winner after three gruelling rounds, adding another big victory to his growing MMA career.

Known for his trademark #ndirova motto, Mataya showed his fighting spirit inside the cage before turning the spotlight to his opponent in his post-fight remarks.

The Zimbabwean thanked Zwane for a tough and competitive fight, while revealing a remarkable sacrifice he made to finance his appearance — selling his car to fund the bout.

Zwane responded in sporting fashion, congratulating Mataya before delivering a message that transcended the fight.

“Africa won tonight, and united we stand,” Zwane said as the two fighters shook hands.

The moment carried added significance amid recent xenophobic tensions in South Africa, which have raised concerns across the region and forced some African nationals to leave the country.

Instead of rivalry, Mataya and Zwane ended the night with a powerful display of sportsmanship, using the EFC cage to send a message of unity across Africa.