Tbilisi, Georgia – 1 October 2025
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) gathered its global membership in Tbilisi for the 2025 General Assembly – a reflection of the sport’s continued growth and unity under IMMAF’s leadership. Member federations from across all continents came together to review the federation’s progress, approve financial and operational reports, and set priorities for the year ahead.
The meeting was led by IMMAF CEO Densign White, who guided members through the statutory agenda outlined under Article 22. The Assembly opened with a roll call and adoption of the agenda, followed by the presentation of IMMAF’s activity report, audited financial statements, and committee updates. Members approved the budget for 2026 and confirmed the reappointment of auditors, reaffirming IMMAF’s commitment to transparency and strong governance.
Leadership and Governance
The 2025 Assembly marked an important step in IMMAF’s organisational evolution, with the appointment of new Board members and the addition of IMMAF’s continental presidents to the Board, ensuring stronger regional representation and closer alignment with member federations worldwide. Members also welcomed Rasha AlKhamis to the IMMAF Board, whose experience and advocacy for women’s sport will further enrich IMMAF’s leadership team.
Reflecting on the year’s achievements, IMMAF President Kerrith Brown commended the federation’s ongoing progress and unity of purpose:
“Each year, IMMAF continues to strengthen its global foundations. Our members, committees, and leadership have shown that collaboration and transparency are the keys to building a sport ready for recognition at the highest level.”
Strategic Insights and Data-led Development
The Assembly featured a presentation by IMMAF’s Director of Strategy and Development, Shriya Popat, who introduced the federation’s This Is Sport Report. Shriya spoke about the importance of data in sport – not only as a tool for growth, but as a means of accountability for federations to understand how far they have come, celebrate their achievements, and identify how much further they can go. She highlighted that data-driven decision making now sits at the heart of IMMAF’s strategy, enabling evidence-based development and measurable impact across all regions.
“In 2024 I called for collaboration and data to lead our growth – and this year, we’ve made it happen. The ‘This Is Sport’ Report isn’t just numbers; it’s a roadmap showing how strategy, insight and unity can drive recognition and sustainable development for MMA worldwide.”
Committee Elections
In line with IMMAF’s statutes, members elected new chairs for the Financial Audit, Arbitration, Disciplinary, and Nomination Committees. These appointments ensure continued accountability and good governance across all areas of IMMAF’s work.
Recognition and Global Progress
Members reaffirmed IMMAF’s shared commitment to achieving full sport recognition through continued governance, safeguarding, and data reforms. The federation’s steady progress demonstrates its readiness to operate to the highest international standards and reflects the professionalism that underpins every aspect of IMMAF’s global operations.
Looking Ahead
Closing the Assembly, CEO Densign White thanked members and staff for their ongoing commitment, noting that IMMAF’s collective strength remains the driving force behind its success.
“IMMAF’s progress is built on unity and shared purpose. From grassroots participation to elite championships, every effort contributes to shaping a credible, inclusive, and globally recognised sport. Together, we’re building a federation that stands as a benchmark for integrity and development in MMA.”
As IMMAF moves forward into 2026, its unified leadership and evidence-led strategy will continue to drive progress toward international recognition, ensuring mixed martial arts is represented with credibility and integrity on the world sporting stage.
