MMA enthusiasts are set for an exhilarating experience as approximately 850 combatants from 45 nations compete in five steel cages at the 2024 IMMAF Youth Championships in Abu Dhabi from August 6 to 10. The young athletes, divided into three age categories: Under 14, 16, and 18, including around 50 Emiratis, will battle for supremacy over the five-day tournament at the Mubadala Arena.
“We are hosting 850 competitors from 45 countries, representing 45 independent federations across all continents. This marks the largest event in the history of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF),” revealed Kerrith Brown, IMMAF President, in an interview with Khaleej Times.
“Our growth is continuous, reflecting the efforts of the UAE Mixed Martial Arts Federation and UAE Jiu-Jitsu, and the increasing support from the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince. This signifies comprehensive development, benefiting not just the fighters but all stakeholders in the MMA ecosystem,” Brown emphasized.
Mohamed Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the UAE MMA Committee, noted a 50% rise in athlete and country participation compared to the inaugural edition. Mohammed Jassim Al Hosani from the UAE MMA Committee clarified that headshots and face punches will be prohibited to ensure the safety of the young competitors.
“This competition will focus on body strikes and grappling to safeguard the fighters,” Al Hosani stated, adding that over 50 young Emirati fighters are currently training in Tajikistan.
“About 51 Emiratis have signed up for the championship. We await confirmation of their participation. This marks the first instance of sending these young talents abroad for training. This event stands as the largest MMA gathering ever, featuring numerous countries and participants simultaneously across five cages,” Al Hosani detailed.
Meanwhile, Brown announced the initiation of a campaign aimed at securing recognition from the International Olympic Committee for IMMAF. “We have commenced the ‘IMMAF Road to Recognition’ campaign. This is our eighth year seeking to be acknowledged as a new international sporting body responsible for mixed martial arts,” Brown concluded.
