By Hasan Khan
In mixed martial arts (MMA), few stories resonate as deeply as that of the underdog who rises against the odds. Austria’s Elias Erber embodies that journey, climbing from obscurity to becoming an IMMAF World champion. As he prepares for his final amateur bout at the 2025 IMMAF European Championships this February, Elias stands on the precipice of a new chapter, one that will see him transition to the professional ranks. Before he takes that leap, there’s one last dance on the IMMAF stage, a stage that has helped define his career and shape him into the fighter he is today.
The Underdog’s Ascent
Elias Erber’s rise wasn’t instant. When he entered the IMMAF arena in 2022, few outside his circle knew his name. Competing on a global stage against fighters from over 120 countries, he was just another contender. What set him apart was his relentless work ethic and unshakable self-belief.
“If you want to fight against the best, you want to fight at IMMAF,” Elias reflected. For him, it was more than just competition, it was the proving ground where dreams were forged through high-stakes combat. Every bout, every victory, and every setback shaped his identity as a fighter.
His breakthrough came in 2023 when he clinched gold at the IMMAF World Championships, a victory that announced his arrival on the global stage. Against opponents with more experience and bigger reputations, Elias fought with a blend of technical precision and raw determination, earning him the gold medal and the respect of the MMA community. But he wasn’t done yet. The hunger to prove himself further drove him to new heights, and he continued to refine his craft, knowing that the road to greatness is never a straight line.
European Triumph
In 2024, Elias added another title: IMMAF European Champion. More than just another medal, this victory was a statement, proof that his World Championship wasn’t a fluke. It cemented his place as one of the top amateur fighters globally and put Austrian MMA on the map. Representing Austria, he carried the hopes of a nation in a sport where his country has rarely been a focal point.
“Everybody wants to fight on the last day,” Elias expressed. “And if you have the privilege of fighting on the last day, you know you’re against the best in the world. There’s nothing like it, and nothing will be like it again once I go pro.”
These words capture the bittersweet nature of his upcoming final IMMAF appearance. The European Championships in Serbia will mark the end of an era for Elias, a farewell to the platform that has been his home for the past three years. It’s a stage where he has grown, triumphed, and represented Austria alongside fighters from every corner of the globe. For Elias, competing under the Austrian flag has been a source of immense pride, a reminder that he is not just fighting for himself but for his nation and the sport he loves.
The Last Dance
As Elias enters his final IMMAF tournament, the stakes are high. It’s his chance to cement his legacy as one of the organisation’s greatest amateur fighters. But it’s also a moment of reflection on how far he’s come and what lies ahead. The jump to professional MMA is daunting, but if his IMMAF career is any indication, he’s ready.
Elias’s journey is one of resilience and self-belief, proving that success isn’t about where you start but how relentlessly you pursue your goals. His story goes beyond the cage, a testament to sacrifice, hard work, and commitment. As he steps into the cage in Serbia one last time, he carries the lessons, memories, and pride of a fighter who dared to dream big.
For Elias, this is more than just a tournament; it’s the final chapter of an unforgettable journey. And when it ends, the world will be watching to see what this Austrian warrior does next. Whether he leaves with another gold medal or simply the satisfaction of a journey well fought, one thing is certain: Elias Erber has already made his mark on MMA.
