Moustapha Diakhaté, ARES light heavyweight champion: The ambassador of "Baye Fall values" in MMA recounts his journey

Undefeated in five professional fights, 25-year-old Senegalese Moustapha Diakhaté, light heavyweight champion of the ARES Fighting Championship, is preparing to make his debut in the Professional Fighters League (PFL). Nicknamed "Baye Fall," the fighter reflects on his journey, the values that guide his career, his ambitions at the highest level of MMA, and his desire to ultimately contribute to the development of this sport in Senegal.

You are an MMA fighter and you have just signed with the Professional Fighters League (PFL). You will make your debut on July 31st. Can you tell us about your background?

MMA is a combat sport that combines several disciplines. It's a very complete and demanding sport. I'm passionate about it and I'm happy to be able to compete at this level.

How did you discover this discipline?

I started Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at the age of 16 in Belgium. Having been born in Senegal, I already practiced a little wrestling. After winning several Jiu-Jitsu competitions, I turned to MMA. I then worked on boxing, wrestling, and all the other disciplines necessary to become a well-rounded fighter.

How did your first fight go? Did you immediately understand that this was your path?

Before the fights, there was above all the passion. It's what drives me to move forward and improve every day. From the very beginning, I knew what I wanted to achieve. This determination allowed me to persevere, to work hard, and to get to where I am today.

You have an impressive record with five wins and no losses. In very few fights, you have joined the PFL…

Yes. It's not just my fighting skills that have brought me this far. It's also the values I represent. I proudly represent Senegal and my culture. The performances speak for themselves, but I think people also appreciate what I represent and the message I convey to young people.

You are nicknamed "Baye Fall". Why this choice?

This isn't a character I'm playing. This is who I am. I am Baye Fall, and I wanted to show what this mindset truly represents: hard work, discipline, humility, and respect. Our elders dedicated their lives to work. Today, some of these values are being lost. I want to pass them on through MMA, a sport followed worldwide.

Does this spirit also accompany you in the cage?

Of course. The most important thing is to pass on the values of respect, hard work, and kindness towards others. That's what I want to show young people, especially in my country, Senegal.

You have just signed with PFL. How are you approaching this new stage of your career?

This is the logical next step in my journey. I've taken all the necessary steps to get here. Today, I want to show the world what I can do, both inside and outside the cage.

Your first fight in the PFL will be against Neshimwe . How do you plan to approach it?

Like all other fights, I'll give it my all in the cage. My goal is always to win and show the best version of myself.

Do you feel in top form for your first PFL fight?

Always. I prepare seriously for each of my fights. I only step into the cage when I'm in top form. My job is to train hard and give my best.

What are your objectives at PFL?

To face the best fighters in the world and become PFL champion. That's the goal I've set for myself.

Does this signing also represent an evolution in terms of your image and your career?

Yes, but the work on my image had begun well before the PFL. It was thanks to this visibility and my performances that the organization became interested in me. The PFL will now give an even greater international dimension to my career.

In Senegal, many wrestlers are now turning to MMA. What is your perspective on this evolution among Senegalese athletes?

They have enormous potential. But MMA is a very complex sport that requires time. You have to respect all the stages of training and not rush things.

Why do some fail so quickly ?

Because MMA is extremely demanding. Before stepping into the cage, you have to master all aspects of combat. Opponents are very well prepared. You have to learn gradually and build a solid foundation.

What are the keys to success in this sport?

You need to have a good support system: a good coach, a good team, good management, and supportive loved ones. It's essential to reach the highest level.

Are you in contact with any MMA practitioners in Senegal?

Yes, many people contact me and support me. We are a small country and it is important to support each other.

Do you also keep in touch with your fans?

Yes. I regularly interact with them on social media, even if my schedule doesn't always allow it. After each fight, I also take the time to thank the people who came to support me.

Do you plan to invest in the development of MMA in Senegal one day?

Yes, that's a goal. For now, I'm focused on my career. I want to reach the highest level and bring recognition to Senegal. After that, I'd like to contribute to the development of MMA in my country, create infrastructure, and offer young people the best conditions to progress.