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Al Etihad
a day ago
- Sport
- Al Etihad
Sixth edition of IMMAF Youth World Championships kicks off in Al Ain
22 July 2025 09:51 AL AIN (WAM) Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, the sixth edition of the IMMAF Youth World Championships kicked off on Monday at ADNEC Centre Al event, held in the city for the first time, features a record participation of more than 1,000 male and female athletes representing 60 by the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) and hosted by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, the championship runs until July 27. The opening day featured high-intensity bouts and a vibrant atmosphere, with strong attendance from spectators and the participation of rising talent from across the the first time since the championship's inception, competitions in the Youth D category, for athletes aged 10 to 11, were held. This milestone reflects the organisers' commitment to broadening participation and supporting the development of young athletes from an early of IMMAF, Kerrith Brown, expressed pride in the ongoing partnership with the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation. He noted that this edition is the largest since the championship began in 2019 and serves as an ideal platform for cultural exchange and for promoting positive values among youth added that the UAE has become a leading model for hosting international sporting events, supported by its ambitious vision, world-class infrastructure and commitment to empowering youth in the field of Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation and Chairman of the MMA Committee, Mohammed bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, said, "Hosting the championship in the Al Ain Region for the first time reflects the international sporting community's confidence in the UAE's organisational capabilities. It also highlights the country's efforts to enhance its sports infrastructure and expand its hosting map to cover all emirates."He added that the inclusion of the Youth D category this year introduces a new dimension to the competition and aligns with a forward-thinking vision to support and nurture talent from a young age.'This contributes to developing future champions, instilling a positive competitive spirit early on, and preparing a generation with the skills and mindset needed to represent the UAE on the global stage,' he Dhaheri expressed his sincere gratitude to the wise leadership and extended his appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his generous patronage of this global event. He emphasised that such support serves as a powerful motivator for the younger generations to continue striving for excellence and to elevate Emirati sports to greater of the United States national team, Kyle Wilson, said his team is participating in the championship with around 30 male and female athletes, praising the outstanding level of organisation.
Khaleej Times
15-07-2025
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Record growth in participation at IMMAF Youth World Championships in Al Ain
The UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation is ramping up final preparations to host the sixth edition of the IMMAF Youth World Championships, which will take place in Al Ain from July 21 to 27. More than 1,000 male and female athletes from 60 countries are set to compete, marking a record number of participants and highlighting the event's growing global profile. Leading countries taking part include reigning champions Ukraine, as well as the United Kingdom, Uzbekistan, the UAE, and Armenia. This year, the championship will be held in Al Ain for the first time, while the UAE continues its role as host for the fourth consecutive year. Participation has surged from 200 athletes in the third edition held in 2022 to over 1,000 this year. The sharp increase confirms the championship's rising popularity and the UAE's key role in transforming it into a preferred destination for young talent in mixed martial arts. Mohammed bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation and Chairman of the MMA Committee, said that preparations are progressing according to a comprehensive plan covering all organisational, logistical, and technical aspects. The Federation is working closely with local and international partners to deliver an outstanding edition that reflects the UAE's reputation for hosting world-class sporting events. 'This year's championship has attracted record participation, reflecting the rapid development of the event and reinforcing its position as a global platform for preparing the future stars of MMA,' Al Dhaheri said. 'Bringing the competition to Al Ain marks a significant step forward, building on the successes of previous editions in Abu Dhabi.' Al Dhaheri added that the 2025 edition will offer a well-rounded experience for athletes, delegations, and spectators. Alongside the high-level competition, a range of cultural and entertainment programmes will help cement the championship's status as a leading international event and a meeting point for emerging talent. Meanwhile, the UAE National Team continues its preparations at a training camp in Thailand, focused on enhancing both physical and technical readiness. The camp aims to ensure the athletes deliver a strong performance that reflects the development of MMA in the UAE.
