Stake.com Backs Nigerian Combat Sports League in Landmark Deal
The Nigerian Combat Sports League (NCSL), an organization dedicated to promoting the ancient Nigerian boxing art of Dambe, has secured a groundbreaking sponsorship agreement with Stake.com, a prominent online wagering and entertainment platform. This alliance signifies Stake’s initial venture into African sponsorships, despite their notable backing of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) internationally and their specific support of Israel Adesanya, the UFC Middleweight Champion of Nigerian heritage.
Founded in 2019, NCSL aspires to elevate Dambe, a centuries-old fighting technique deeply ingrained in Nigerian culture, to worldwide recognition. The partnership will feature Stake’s logo prominently displayed across NCSL events, encompassing athlete apparel, the fighting ring itself, and the organization’s online presence. This collaboration will provide Stake with substantial exposure to a fresh and enthusiastic audience while further integrating their brand into the essence of Dambe tradition.
Maxwell Kalu, NCSL’s Chief Executive Officer, conveyed his excitement about the partnership, remarking, “This collaboration with Stake is unparalleled and represents a crucial juncture for combat sports in Africa. It’s an exhilarating stride towards achieving our goal of bringing Dambe to the global stage.” He further highlighted the distinctive allure of Dambe, stating, “Dambe is steeped in history, fiercely competitive, and rich in tradition, making it unlike any other combat sport globally. This partnership with Stake is a testament to the remarkable expansion of NCSL and demonstrates that Dambe is genuinely captivating fight enthusiasts worldwide.” Kalu concluded by expressing his pride in being Stake’s first partner in Africa, confident that the collaboration will strengthen Stake’s brand recognition and broaden its user base throughout the continent.
Akhil Sarin, the head of acquisitions at Stake.com, expresses great enthusiasm for their collaboration with the African Warrior Fighting Championship (AWFC). He recognizes significant promise in the African mixed martial arts landscape, especially in Durban, the home of the AWFC. This agreement aligns with Stake’s broader strategy to establish a substantial presence in Africa, leveraging their already established standing within the combat sports realm.