The 2025 IMMAF Youth World Championships kicked off with the debut of the Youth D division on the world stage.
Taking place in Al Ain, the next generation of MMA stars tested themselves against the very best from around the globe.
Team England topped the medal table, claiming six gold medals and four bronze. Among the nation’s new champions, Albie King shone in particular. Following an impressive showing at the 2025 IMMAF European Championships, King went from strength to strength, going undefeated over the course of the day.
One of IMMAF’s perennial powerhouses, Ukraine, picked up a total of 20 medals, including four gold. European Youth Champion Alina Kovyrnova continued to cement her status as one of the top youth prospects to watch, with a 100% finish rate under the IMMAF banner.
Team Wales made history as Amara Eres Davies became the nation’s first Youth World Champion. Davies put on a pair of consummate performances, making her entire country proud.
Team Australia’s lone athlete on day one, Robert Sanderson, picked up a gold medal in the 48kg division. Sanderson impressed, sealing the victory by way of armbar in the final.
Day one also saw Team USA put in a stellar performance, earning one bronze and four gold medals. This included Antonio Chavez, who went undefeated in the +57kg division, winning three of his matches by Americana.
Team Bulgaria and Brazil also picked up gold medals in the men’s 27kg and women’s 34kg divisions, respectively.
Watch all the action LIVE on IMMAF.tv
