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 officially got underway today in the Al Ain Region, Abu Dhabi. The event, held in the city for the first time, is taking place at ADNEC Centre Al Ain and features a record participation of more than 1,000 male and female athletes representing 60 countries.
Organised 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 globe.
For 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 age.
The UAE National Team made an impressive start on the opening day. Their performance highlighted their strong technical preparation and determination to achieve further success throughout the week.
Kerrith Brown, President of IMMAF, 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 worldwide.
He 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 sports.
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: “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 in enhancing its sports infrastructure and expanding its hosting map to cover all emirates.
“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.
“We sincerely thank the wise leadership of the UAE, and we are deeply grateful for the limitless support of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and the generous patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for this global event. This support serves as a powerful motivator for the younger generation to continue striving for excellence and elevating Emirati sport to greater heights,” Al Dhaheri added.
Kyle Wilson, coach of the United States national team, said, “We are here with around 30 athletes. This isn’t our first time in the UAE, as we’ve competed before in a championship held in Dubai. The level of organisation at this event is exceptional. Everything runs smoothly and meets the highest standards, allowing athletes and coaches to focus fully on the matches. We’ve trained hard in the lead-up and had a good performance today. We’re looking forward to tomorrow’s bouts.”
Jeremiah Castro, an athlete from Team USA, added, “I really enjoy mixed martial arts and I’m happy to have the chance to be here and compete in Al Ain. I hope to win our national championship back home and return next year. The competition is tough with so many athletes involved, which helps us gain more experience. I also really liked the entertainment and activities at the sports village. The atmosphere here is amazing.”
