Namibia reigns supreme at Ring Contact Fighting championships
Namibia has once again made history by claiming top honours at the RCFA Worlds 2026 Championships, marking the country’s third consecutive victory at this prestigious international martial arts tournament.
The championship, held in South Africa, featured five countries, 26 clubs, and 268 participants from around the world. Against this strong international field, team Namibia delivered an outstanding performance. A delegation of 36 athletes represented the country, with 25 placing in the Top 30 and 9 achieving Top 10 rankings. Additionally, 10 Namibian officials officiated at world-class standard, ensuring the smooth running of the championships.
Adél Oosthuizen, President of Ring Contact Fighting Arts Namibia, expressed hes pride in the team’s performance. “We are thrilled to announce Namibia’s historic third consecutive victory at the RCFA Worlds 2026. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our entire team for an extraordinary performance. Our athletes demonstrated exceptional skill, resilience, and determination, proving that Namibia is a powerhouse in this sport,” she said.
Oosthuizen added, “This victory reflects not only talent but also discipline, preparation, and commitment, the values that define Ring Contact Fighting Arts in Namibia.”
World Champions
Namibia produced 11 RCFAI World Champions at the tournament, including:
- Mila Celliers – RCFA Windhoek Club (1 Division)
- Karien du Plessis – RCFA Windhoek Club (3 Divisions)
- Aldo du Plessis – RCFA Windhoek Club (4 Divisions)
- Zandrino Gariseb – RCFA Windhoek Club (2 Divisions)
- Cherné Scheepers – RCFA Windhoek Club
- Joline Bornman – RCFA Otjiwarongo Club (2 Divisions)
- Carlo du Plessis – RCFA Windhoek Club (2 Divisions)
- Lara-Lee du Preez – RCFA Otjiwarongo Club (1 Division)
- Gustavo van Wyk – RCFA Rehoboth Club (3 Divisions)
- Jade Venter – Swakopmund Fight Club (1 Division)
- Ryan Roux – Swakopmund Fight Club (4 Divisions, also won his Main Card fight)
Young star shines
Special mention goes to nine-year-old Jozua Kunert of RCFA Otjiwarongo Club, who was awarded Best Male Athlete. He received a world title belt and trophy from Grand Master Joe Viljoen, marking a remarkable achievement at a young age.
Leadership
National Coach Sensei Nislon Coelho played a key role in preparing the team, guiding athletes through what was widely regarded as one of the toughest championships to date. The 10 Namibian officials also officiated at a world-class level, ensuring fair play and smooth conduct throughout the competition.
RCFA Namibia was further honoured by RCFA International, which donated a six-corner ring to support the sport’s growth and development in the country.
A Sport for all
The championships featured multiple disciplines, including weapon fighting, semi- and full-contact high and low kicks, close combat, sport boxing, and supreme fighting artist categories.
As Namibia celebrates its third consecutive RCFA Worlds victory, the focus remains on developing strong athletes of all ages and raising the standard of Ring Contact Fighting Arts nationally.
Namibia’s journey in martial arts continues to inspire, proving once again that the country is a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.
