By João Vitor Xavier
The grassroots growth of MMA in Europe has accelerated rapidly in recent years, with nations across the continent investing heavily to raise the sport’s standards. That commitment was on full display at this year’s IMMAF Youth World Championships.
A total of 19 European nations returned home with at least one medal, while the two leading teams on the overall medal table were also from Europe. Ukraine and England set the pace throughout the tournament, pushing each other in a thrilling battle for the top spot, elevating the level of competition across the championship.
Ukraine ultimately topped the medal table, securing 15 gold, 19 silver, and 36 bronze medals. England followed closely in second with 13 gold, 5 silver, and 11 bronze medals. Completing the top five were Tajikistan, the United States, and Poland, the latter adding another strong European presence to the upper ranks of the standings.
For Team Ukraine, the likes of Zlata Klein (Women Youth B 52kg), Maksym Ilin (Youth A Men’s Light Heavyweight), and Damir Pasternak (Youth C Men’s 37kg) shone the brightest, giving their country the edge to beat the opposition of England.
For Team Ukraine, standout performances from Zlata Klein (Women’s Youth B 52kg), Maksym Ilin (Youth A Men’s Light Heavyweight), and Damir Pasternak (Youth C Men’s 37kg) proved decisive, giving their nation the edge over a determined England.
Team England, meanwhile, stayed in contention until the final day, driven by strong showings from Noah Tyndall (Youth B Men’s 40kg), Ceejay Fenton (Youth B Men’s 48kg), and Bella Adams (Youth A Women’s Strawweight).
In total, the following European nations all earned medals at the 2025 IMMAF Youth World Championships: Ukraine, England, Poland, Wales, Serbia, Ireland, Austria, Bulgaria, Spain, Lithuania, Romania, Italy, Czechia, Germany, Hungary, Finland, Estonia, Slovakia, and Montenegro.
It was a true showcase of the excellent work being done in the continent with regards to grassroots MMA, and the fruits of this labour are sure to make an impact in the entire sport of MMA for years to come.
