Record Growth in Participation at IMMAF Youth World Championships in Al Ain
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.
His Excellency 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 and positions them to compete for top honours at the championship.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Sharjah 24
4 days ago
- Sharjah 24
Al Hamriyah hosts "Innovation and AI" competition
Presence of Sharjah Sports Summer Higher Committee The event was held in the presence of His Excellency Humaid Al Shamsi, Chairman of the Club's Board of Directors, and Bakhit Saeed Al Quris, Chairman of the Higher Committee for Sharjah Sports Summer. Committee members, including Sheikh Khalid bin Faisal Al Qasimi, also attended, adding significance to the occasion. A platform for future skills and AI innovation The competition featured strong participation in two categories: "Best Project Using Artificial Intelligence" and "Robot Challenge." Participants presented impressive and forward-thinking innovations, reflecting a deep understanding of emerging technologies and artificial intelligence applications. Winners reflect excellence in creativity and tech In the AI project category, Sharjah Self-Defence Club claimed first place, followed by Al Hamriyah Club in second, and Al Bataeh Club in third. In the Robot Challenge, Sharjah Club secured the top position, while Sharjah Classic Cars Club and Mleiha Club came in second and third, respectively. Supporting national vision through youth empowerment His Excellency Humaid Al Shamsi emphasised that the competition reflects Al Hamriyah Club's commitment to equipping youth with future-ready tools. He highlighted the importance of developing young people's skills in innovation and technology, in line with the UAE's national goal of building a knowledge-based and creative generation grounded in artificial intelligence.
Web Release
4 days ago
- Web Release
Sixth Edition of IMMAF Youth World Championships Concludes in Al Ain Region, UAE Adds One More Medal to Take Total to 13
Sixth Edition of IMMAF Youth World Championships Concludes in Al Ain Region, UAE Adds One More Medal to Take Total to 13 The sixth edition of the IMMAF Youth World Championships officially concluded Sunday in Al Ain Region following a week of high-level competition, strong community engagement, and widespread international acclaim. The final day saw the host nation add one more medal to its tally, taking the UAE's total to an impressive 13. The event was held 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 and ran from July 21 to 27 at ADNEC Centre Al Ain. Organised by the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) and hosted by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, the championship was held in the Al Ain Region for the first time. This Initiative was held in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT) and offered an exceptional showcase of talent, professionalism, and sporting spirit. This year's edition welcomed more than 1,000 athletes from 60 countries, competing across four youth divisions – making it the largest and most advanced championship in IMMAF history. At the conclusion of the event, Ukraine was crowned overall champions, followed by England in second place, and Tajikistan in third. The winning teams were honoured at the conclusion the event on Sunday. The UAE national youth team made a notable impact, securing 13 medals across gold, silver, and bronze categories. The results reflect the Federation's ongoing investment in youth development and technical excellence, strengthening the country's growing reputation on the global MMA stage. The final day also featured a ceremony honouring key partners and individuals who contributed to the success of the championship, including Kerrith Brown, President of the International IMMAF; ADNEC Centre Al Ain; the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi; Abu Dhabi Police; SEHA; RDX and Abu Dhabi Sports Channels. H.E. Mohammed bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation and Chairman of the MMA Committee, expressed his pride in the event's success. 'This championship reflects the confidence the international MMA community places in the UAE's capabilities. Hosting this global event in Al Ain underscores our growing reputation for excellence in sports organisation,' he said. 'We are also proud of the outstanding performance of our young athletes. Their determination and discipline represent the spirit of our nation and reaffirm our leadership's vision to create opportunities for future generations in sport.' H.E. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said, 'The rising popularity of combat sports in Abu Dhabi reflects a growing passion for athletic excellence and global sporting prestige. We are proud to welcome to the emirate the IMMAF Youth World Championships, a landmark event that highlights our commitment to nurturing young talent and advancing mixed martial arts on the world stage. Hosting the championship in Al Ain Region for the first time will not only showcase this dynamic destination but also further elevate Abu Dhabi's reputation as a premier hub for international sports.'
Web Release
5 days ago
- Web Release
Ukraine Leads as Intensity Rises on Day Six of IMMAF Youth World Championships in Al Ain Region
Day six of the IMMAF Youth World Championships featured more high-level action in the Youth A (16–17 years) category, as the competition heads into its final stretch. The championship is taking place in the Al Ain Region 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. This initiative is held in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT) and will run until July 27 at ADNEC Centre Al Ain. With the championship nearing its conclusion, Saturday's bouts saw a clear rise in intensity as national teams battled for top spots on the leaderboard. Defending champions Ukraine held their lead and remain favourites to retain the title. England delivered another strong showing to stay close behind, while Tajikistan rounded out the top three. Mohammed Jasem Al Hosani, Member of the MMA Committee at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, said, 'The sixth edition of this championship reflects the UAE's growing stature on the global mixed martial arts map. It sets a benchmark in professional organisation, community engagement, and international participation. The strong turnout and competitive spirit we've seen over the past week highlight the success of the Federation's strategy to grow the sport and prepare new generations to represent their nations in elite competitions.' Gillian Pensavalle, mother of Valentina Pensavalles, who won gold in the Youth A bantamweight (61kg) division, said: 'We came all the way from England to take part in this important championship. We're thrilled with the result and proud of the gold medal. It took a lot of preparation and hard work. We've really enjoyed the experience. Al Ain Region is a beautiful place, and the atmosphere at the event has been incredible. We're already looking forward to coming back next year.' The IMMAF Youth World Championships will conclude tomorrow (Sunday) with the final bouts in the Youth A category. These decisive matches will determine the final medal standings, with teams and spectators closely watching the race for the top positions.
