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From Mali to the World Abou Tounkara Returns to BRAVE CF, Seeks to Make a Statement
Jul 08, 2025
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After nearly four years away from the BRAVE Combat Federation cage, Abou ‘Yondaime’ Tounkara is back and he is ready to make a statement. The Malian lightweight standout, now based out of France, makes his long-awaited return at BRAVE CF 97 on Saturday, 12 July, when he faces Bulgaria’s Pavel Vladev on the main card at the Burgas Arena. For Tounkara, this isn’t just a comeback; it’s a chance to plant the Malian flag firmly on the international fight scene once again.
With a professional record including 12 wins, Tounkara has carved out a career fighting some tough opponents. He’s competed under the banners of several top global promotions, and previously made his BRAVE CF debut in July 2020, where he delivered an emphatic second-round finish.
Since then, the BRAVE CF lightweight division has evolved dramatically. Now ruled by Kyrgyzstan’s Abdisalam Kubanychbek, the 155-pound weight class has become one of the most stacked and dangerous in the organization. Tounkara is determined to carve out his place in this new landscape, and his return bout at BRAVE CF 97 marks the beginning of that campaign.
His opponent, Pavel Vladev, will have the home crowd behind him in Bulgaria, but Tounkara has never been one to shy away from hostile territory. His pressure-heavy fighting style makes him a threat to any lightweight on the BRAVE CF roster.
More than just chasing wins, Tounkara is fighting for representation. With limited Malian athletes competing at this level in MMA, his presence in BRAVE CF carries weight far beyond his personal ambitions. A victory at BRAVE CF 97 would not only rejuvenate his BRAVE CF career but also shine a global spotlight on Malian combat sports.
As fight night approaches, one thing is clear: Abou Tounkara is not here for nostalgia. He’s here to make a statement, and BRAVE CF 97 could mark the start of a remarkable run. Catch Tounkara’s return this Saturday, 12 July, live from Burgas, Bulgaria, as he looks to upset the hometown favorite and reignite his BRAVE CF career.
Stay tuned for more updates as BRAVE CF 97 gets closer to fight night.
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