[1] Hybrid versions also exist among the natives of Sulawesi (Kabasaran dance or Sakalele of the Minahasan),[2] East Nusa Tenggara (Abui Cakalele from Alor),[3] the Tanimbar Islands,[citation needed] and Fakfak ( Mbaham-Matta's Cakalele Mbreh).

[4] The dance is performed by men, two of whom represent opposing captains or leaders while the others are the warriors supporting them.

After an opening ritual, the captains engage in a mock-duel with a spear (sanokat) and long knife (lopu) while their supporters use a long knife in the right hand and a narrow wooden shield in the left hand.

[5] The shield is referred to as a salawaku, or by a local name such as the Tobelo o dadatoko.

Dancers dress in full warrior costume and are backed by the rhythm of the drum, gong (tifa), and fife (sulin).