Promising talents shine at UAE National MMA Championship

The eighth edition of the UAE National MMA Championship kicked off on Saturday in Abu Dhabi.

Organized by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation,

The event was attended by Dr. Abdulla Ahmed Yousif Al Mandous, Director General of the National Center of Meteorology at the Presidential Court; Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation; and Mohammed Al Hosani, Member of the MMA Committee of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, along with several representatives from sports clubs and academies across the UAE.

The opening day featured strong bouts in the Youth D (10-11 years), Youth C (12-13 years), and Youth B (14-15 years) categories, with competitors demonstrating determination and drive to win within a professional sporting environment and high technical standards.

The matches highlighted the technical skills developed by young athletes through advanced training programs, enabling them to analyze opponents and secure victories at decisive moments.

This clearly reflects the level of professionalism achieved by national MMA talent.

Al Dhaheri said that the intensity of the Day One competitions reflects the high professional standard reached by the national championship, as well as its strong appeal across different athlete categories.

He added that the UAE National Championship is one of a series of key tournaments organized by the federation, through which it delivers advanced training and qualification programs for coaches and athletes. These initiatives aim to refine talent and prepare athletes to compete at the international level with confidence and capability.

He also praised the role of the championship in reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for mixed martial arts, expressing his pride in the achievements that continue to add to the UAE’s record in this field.

Family attendance was a defining feature of the opening day, with athletes’ families present to support and encourage them, contributing to boosting their morale and motivating them to deliver their best performances.

Ibrahim Mohammed Al Mesbahi, father of athlete Mohammed, expressed his pride in his son’s participation in a national championship bearing the UAE’s name and taking place during the “Year of Family.” He emphasized the importance of the sport in shaping young individuals’ character and enhancing self-confidence, discipline, and commitment.

Similarly, Omar Zaal Suhail, father of athlete Abdullah, noted that the championship has become a key destination for MMA enthusiasts among families and athletes alike. He highlighted its role in developing athletes’ technical skills and enhancing their physical and mental capabilities, preparing them to become future champions.

The championship competitions are set to continue tomorrow with the remaining bouts in the Youth A (16-17 years) and Adults (18 years and above) categories, with expectations of strong competitions showcasing the skill and experience of advanced athletes.