By IMMAF.org lead writer, Jorden Curran. The International MMA Federation (IMMAF) and World MMA Association (WMMAA) come together for this first time this month, in collaboration for the 2018 IMMAF-WMMAA Unified World Champions of Amateur MMA. The momentous nation vs. nation event is set to kick off on November 11 with both Junior and Senior world championships climaxing with gold medalists crowned at the finals on November 18. After the final European event of WMMAA before joining the IMMAF fold, WMMAA president Vadim Finkelchtein spoke of his high anticipation for ‘the greatest event in the history of amateur MMA’. Taking place in Manama Bahrain for a second year, IMMAF president Kerrith Brown has been overseeing World Championships preparations for the past week. “The main ambition is for the athletes to have had a great experience,” he said, “with their coaches seeing how they perform at the highest amateur level. Right now we’re making sure that stage is set for all as they come together to represent the united brands IMMAF and WMMAA for the first time.” [caption id="attachment_21099" align="aligncenter" width="600"]
Setting the stage: The 2018 World Championships venue in its final construction stages.[/caption] “Things are shaping up really well,” Mr. Brown added. “It’s great to be back and to witness the biggest amateur MMA event ever seen, in addition to the first Junior World Championships. All teams are putting the effort in to make this the most spectacular event to date. “The past week has involved intense event set up. We have four cages being erected for simultaneous bouts, full competition gear being delivered and prepared for over 350 record breaking athletes; the medical tent and cutman facilities are all coming together. “There’s a lot going on behind the scenes that nobody sees, tackling key agendas and making sure all issues are at a level where everything is controlled with all staff getting the help they need to get the job done.”]]>
