Young athletes impress at Eighth Youth MMA Championship. ACTION UAE

The eighth Youth MMA Championship took place on Saturday, 6 July, at Shabab Al Ahli Club in Dubai, showcasing the impressive skills of athletes aged 12–17 from various clubs and academies across the UAE. With dozens of male and female athletes participating, the event saw awe-inspiring performances by talents, signalling a promising future in the sport.

The day-long event, held just a month before the IMMAF Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi, which will be hosted by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation next month, was more than a competition. Featuring 74 bouts, it provided crucial preparation for young athletes, gearing them up for the international stage in August.

Mohammed bin Dalmouk Al Dhaheri, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation said, that the championship reflected the Federation’s commitment to promoting and developing the mixed martial arts and solidifying the UA'’s status as a leader in this sport both regionally and globally. 

"We are dedicated to developing the skills of our young athletes and preparing them for future competitions, especially the IMMAF Youth World Championships, which Abu Dhabi is hosting for the third consecutive year, and will commence in four weeks.

The day-long event was held just a month before the IMMAF Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi. ACTION UAE
The day-long event was held just a month before the IMMAF Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi. ACTION UAE

"This championship provides valuable experiences, allowing athletes to test their abilities and achieve physical and mental readiness in a competitive environment on part with international standards. Through these championships, we are laying the foundation for the next generation of champions who will represent the UAE in various regional and international championships," told Al Dhaheri.

Mohammed Al Hosani, member of the Mixed Martial Arts Committee at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, added, that the edition of the championship saw a 27% increase in athlete participation, reflecting the growing interest in the sport. 

"Today, we witnessed exceptional performances that demonstrate the commitment of athletes, coaches, and academies to developing skills and raising standards of the sport," said Al Hosani.