Athlete registration opens today for the International MMA Federation’s 2023 Youth MMA World Championships for 12 to 17-year-olds, taking place in Abu Dhabi from 2 to 5 August. Hosted by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and MMA Federation, the event will be live streamed at immaf.tv.
Those interested in competing should contact their IMMAF-affiliated, national MMA federation for information. The deadline for entries is July 1.
Throughout the four days of competition, the athletes will compete under the IMMAF Youth MMA Rules for 12 to 13-year-olds (Youth C), 14 to 15-year-olds (Youth B) and 16 to 17-year-olds (Youth A).
The rule sets have been modified from the Unified Rules with respect to the developmental stage and safety of each age group as advised by IMMAF’s medical, coaching, and regulatory affairs committees. IMMAF does not permit head strikes for competitors under the age of 18.
The 2022 IMMAF Youth MMA World Championships gathered nearly 500 athletes from 42 nations, last August. Team Ukraine topped the overall medal table, with the UAE and Saudi Arabia securing their first ever IMMAF gold medals.
This year’s edition is expected to increase the number of registrations and keep the high-level standard with “Orange ” grade for 14 to 17-year-olds and “Yellow” grade for 12-13-year-olds as minimum technical level required.
Further information regarding the event can be found on Smoothcomp.
IMMAF’s grading syllabus and tutorial videos can be accessed via the IMMAF App available at the App Store or Google Play store.
