International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) President Kerrith Brown recently concluded an official visit to Armenia, focused on strengthening relationships with key sporting stakeholders and exploring opportunities for the continued development of mixed martial arts within the country.
During the visit, President Brown met with National Olympic Committee of Armenia President Gagik Tsarukyan, Armenian MMA Federation President Garegin Aghabalyan, and Armenian Non-Olympic Sports Federation President Garnik Hayrapetyan. Discussions centred on youth participation, athlete pathways, coach and official education, international cooperation, future IMMAF events, and the long-term development of MMA in Armenia.
A key part of the visit included time at Olympavan, Armenia’s premier Olympic training complex, where President Brown met with athletes, coaches and members of the sporting community. Discussions focused on athlete development, safeguarding, educational standards and international competition opportunities, while reinforcing the values of discipline, respect and personal development through sport.
The visit also featured several cultural and sporting engagements, including visits to the Tsitsernakaberd Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex, the future Mount Hatis Jesus Christ statue project, and the Karen Demirchyan Sports and Concerts Complex, where discussions explored the potential for future international MMA events in Armenia.
President Brown also attended the opening ceremony of the Caucasus Open International Muay Thai Tournament and visited the renowned Ararat Brandy Factory, gaining further insight into Armenia’s sporting community, heritage and culture.
The visit reinforced opportunities for future cooperation between IMMAF and Armenian sporting institutions, including youth development initiatives, technical education programmes and the potential hosting of future European and World championships.
Reflecting on the visit, IMMAF President Kerrith Brown stated:
“Armenia left a very strong impression on me. Throughout my visit, I witnessed a genuine commitment to youth development, sporting excellence and creating opportunities for future generations.
I was honoured to meet athletes, coaches, sports leaders and key stakeholders who share a passion for developing MMA and supporting young people through sport.
The hospitality extended to me was exceptional, and I leave Armenia with great respect for its people, culture, history and sporting ambitions.
I look forward to continuing discussions with our Armenian partners and exploring future opportunities to support the development of MMA in Armenia.”
The visit marks another important step in IMMAF’s efforts to strengthen international partnerships and support the responsible development of mixed martial arts worldwide.
