The monumental showdown takes place on Saturday, October 18, at the Twinsbet Arena in Vilnius, marking a new chapter for both Dailidko and the Bahrain-based promotion.
For the 34-year-old, the occasion is deeply personal. Representing his homeland on such a grand stage carries meaning far beyond competition.
“To headline BRAVE CF’s first-ever event in Lithuania is something I’ll cherish forever,” Dailidko expressed. “It’s not just about defending my belt; it’s about representing my country on a global platform and showing the world that Lithuania has warriors ready to shine.”
BRAVE CF 99 is held in collaboration with Unique & Talented Martial Artists (UTMA), and it solidifies the company’s expansion across Europe.
Lithuania becomes the 38th nation to host a BRAVE CF card — an achievement that underscores its relentless pursuit of global MMA development, sustainable ecosystems, and elite-level competition in emerging markets.
Having already established itself as the leading MMA organization in Europe by event volume, BRAVE CF continues to create opportunities for athletes across the continent. Dailidko himself is a testament to this mission.
“BRAVE CF believed in European fighters when others weren’t looking our way,” he said. “They gave us the chance to prove that talent here can compete with the best globally. I’m living proof of that.”
Dailidko’s journey with BRAVE CF began in October 2022 when he debuted at BRAVE CF 65 during the promotion’s European push amid the pandemic.
Three years later, “The Experiment” has evolved from a promising heavyweight to the face of the division, holding the distinction of being its first-ever World Champion.
In September 2024, he captured gold by knocking out Patryk Dubiela in the opening round at BRAVE CF 88, then defended his World Title with a second-round finish of Odie Delaney at BRAVE CF 94 this past May.
Now, he returns home as the headliner for BRAVE CF’s maiden foray into Lithuania — an opportunity that connects him back to his humble beginnings.
“I grew up dreaming about being an athlete, even when the odds seemed impossible,” Dailidko recalled. “BRAVE CF turned that dream into reality. They gave me a path, and now I’m carrying the Lithuanian flag into the biggest fight of my career — right here at home.”
With his heavyweight crown on the line, Dailidko aims to make a statement in front of his countrymen.
“Defending this title at home means everything,” he vowed. “I plan to give the fans a performance they’ll never forget. This belt stays in Lithuania.”
For Dailidko, the upcoming spectacle in Vilnius is not only about legacy but also about inspiration. He sees BRAVE CF’s arrival as a catalyst for the nation’s growing MMA scene.
“BRAVE CF gave me a platform when I needed it most, and now they’re doing the same for my country,” he stated. “This event will inspire young Lithuanian fighters to believe that their dreams are possible too.”