Johannesburg (South Africa) – Francois Groenewald (3-2) has stepped up on short notice to face Koba Iakobidze (1-3) at EFC AFRICA 17 on 23 November. Iakobidze’s original opponent, Jean-Luc Kazadi, pulled out due to an injury sustained in one of his training sessions. Kazadi tore a ligament in his right knee during a kickboxing and sparring session with Wade Henderson, rendering him unable to compete in two weeks time.

The strategic Groenewald, who has been training for this scenario to be a late replacement, dispatched of Kazadi at EFC AFRICA 16 with a triangle choke. He is more than happy to add another bout to his record. “I am very excited to be fighting Koba. I know he is a talented fighter and we have talked about fighting each other for a long time now. I have a lot of respect for him and we will put on a great show for the fans. Christmas will be coming early,” says Groenewald.

Iakobidze is not worried about the change of opponent with a mere two weeks to fight night, and is more confident than ever. “Groenewald is a good ground fighter but we start out standing. Even if it does go to the ground, I have no problem with that, I don’t believe I really have a weakness. He has got a lot to worry about and he knows it,” says Iakobidze.

EFC AFRICA 17, presented by MusclePharm, takes place at the Carnival City Big Top Arena on 23 November. Tickets on sale at Computicket www.computicket.com and tickets for the live broadcast to Nu Metro Cinemas available at www.numetro.com.