NIGERIAN mixed martial arts fighter Raymond Ahana arrived in South Africa last week and can't wait to get into the cage for his bout against Mzansi's Jason Culverwell at Carnival City's Big Top Arena on Friday night.

They will clash in a light heavyweight bout in the 15th edition of the Extreme Fighting Championship series, spokeswoman Philippa Harvey announced yesterday.

She said Ahana was excited to be back in South Africa. In his last bout, Ahana won with a devastating head kick.

"He said he just cannot wait to get in the cage and do his thing! The hard work is almost behind him. He extended his gratitude to Leron Myles and Steven Castle at Top Box Gym and also Wade Henderson."

Harvey said the bout between Ahana and Richards Bay-based Culverwell is one of the evening's main card bouts and will be televised live on e.tv throughout Africa from 10.40pm. Harvey said the tournament comprises 13 bouts.

Another fight to look out for is the clash between Norman "Chef" Wessels and Jean Paul "JP" Joubert for the vacant Extreme Fighting Championship Africa title.

Joubert said: "At the moment, Norman Wessels is probably the best light heavyweight for me to be matched against, even though I'm not that impressed by him, standing or on the ground. He's not bad, but I'm not threatened at all. Three months ago I started on a new conditioning programme and the results have been astonishing.

"My power, speed and agility have shot up and I believe I'll be in the best condition that I've ever been in for a fight. It's my time to win. I've put in a lot of hard work and I'm a warrior who will fight to the end. I'm going to become champion and step out of anonymity."