The Youth MMA Championship held at Dubai’s Shabab Al Ahli Club was a remarkable showcase of the burgeoning mixed martial arts talents in the UAE. The event featured over 100 young athletes ranging from 12 to 17 years of age, and a fight card that included 62 bouts spanning various weight and age categories. The tournament, which brought together athletes from prominent clubs and academies, served as a significant platform for the emerging fighters to demonstrate their skills and preparedness for the upcoming IMMAF Youth World Championships.
Mohammed Bin Dalmouk Al Dhaheri, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, emphasized the importance of events such as the Youth MMA Championship in fostering the development of athletes and enhancing their competitive capabilities. Additionally, Ahmed Al Janahi, a representative of the Dubai Sports Council, commended the championship for its role in advancing MMA in the UAE.
Yazan Yaseen, a coach at The Force Sports, expressed optimism regarding the growth and potential of young athletes in the UAE. He underlined the significance of providing a competitive platform for youth athletes as a launching pad for future champions and potential members of the National Team.
These sentiments were echoed by Emirati Hamad Jassim, who emerged victorious in the Youth C (12-13 years old)/ -40kg category, and Abdulla Andeez from Shabab AlAhli Dubai, the gold medallist in the Youth B (14-15 years old)/ -62kg category. Both athletes attributed their success to their rigorous training and conveyed their eagerness to continue competing in future championships.
The Youth MMA Championship not only offered a platform for intense competition but also served as a testament to the growing talent pool in the UAE. With each edition witnessing the participation of more young athletes and improvements in their performances, the championship undeniably plays a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of MMA athletes in the country.