Paul Abraham The Pan American Mixed Martial Arts Federation held an Extraordinary General Assembly in Mexico on September 15, 2026. The meeting took place during the 2026 IMMAF Pan American Championships. The Assembly was called by PCMMA President Ubaldo Marroquin following a request from one-third of the federation’s members. The panel featured IMMAF President Kerrith […]
Paul Abraham The 2026 IMMAF Angola Dipanda Open World Cup will bring together athletes from 19 nations in Luanda this September. The competition is scheduled to take place in the Angolan capital from September 17 to 20, 2026, featuring Youth A and Senior age brackets. Host nation Angola will be joined by Algeria, Brazil, the […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) Youth Development Commission has officially launched its landmark PlayMMA pilot programme in South Africa. Formulated and spearheaded by PlayMMA founder and IMMAF Youth Development Commission member Chantelle Calvert, under the oversight of IMMAF Director of Development Dr. Andrew Moshanov, the historic event took place on 10 August 2026, […]
Paul Abraham Day 6 of the 2026 IMMAF Youth World Championships ended with more medals for Russia as the nation took lead of the gold medal tally, while Armenia’s Rafik Aleksanyan was one of the standout performers in Abu Dhabi, winning six fights on his way to featherweight division gold. For his final three bouts, […]
IMMAF is delighted to welcome a brand-new country to its membership family, through the Kenya MMA Federation (KEMMAF). Based in Nairobi, the nation’s capital, KEMMAF is the national governing body for Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in Kenya, registered as a national sports organisation and holds sole authority to regulate, sanction, and develop MMA at all levels […]
Paul Abraham Day 5 of the 2026 IMMAF Youth World Championships saw several familiar faces return to the podium in Abu Dhabi. Flyweight ruler Bella Adams and Strawweight force Shokboz Abdukhakimov added new titles to their records, while Slovakia’s Maria Scali finally secured world gold. Adams became a three-time IMMAF World Champion as England’s leading […]
Day 4 of the IMMAF Youth World Championships saw the Youth B competition continue in Abu Dhabi. Zlata Klein was one of the big names of the day. The Ukrainian claimed another gold medal to become a four-time IMMAF Youth World Champion, submitting each and every opponent and concluding the tournament with a stunning leg […]
Hasan Khan For Carlos Alberto Silva Nunes, officiating is rooted in a lifetime spent studying combat sports from every angle. A former competitive Olympic wrestler, coach, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt and longstanding MMA official, he brings practical experience to a role defined by pressure, precision and responsibility. His officiating journey began in 2008 with the […]
Paul Abraham The first wave of Youth B world champions were crowned on Day 3 with more to come on Thursday in Abu Dhabi. Another world title went to Ukraine, one of MMA’s foremost nations for youth development, as Karyna Kolezhuk added yet another gold medal to her IMMAF collection and Ireland’s Cameron Geraghty showcased […]
Paul Abraham Tajikistan took the lead on Day 2 of the IMMAF Youth World Championships. The nation claimed four Youth C world titles and continued its strong run in Abu Dhabi. Ramazon Faizulloev (34kg), Abdurahmon Makhmadyorov (40 kg), Bilol Akhmedov (48 kg) and Umar Ismonov (52 kg) all finished on top of the podium to […]
Paul Abraham The 2026 IMMAF Youth World Championships got underway in Abu Dhabi on Monday, August 18. The first Youth D world champions were crowned on the opening day of competition, with over 1,250 athletes competing throughout the week. Anthony Demellweek was one of the standout performers on Day 1. The English youngster won all […]
Paul Abraham The UFC held its first event in Serbia on August 1, 2026. UFC Belgrade took place at the Belgrade Arena, hosted by the Serbian MMA Federation. IMMAF was represented in several ways. Former IMMAF athletes Nina Nikolija Milošević and Bogdan Grad competed on the card, while Dejan Tešić and Vladimir Badrljica worked as […]
Paul Abraham Two former IMMAF athletes enjoyed successful nights at UFC Belgrade as Nina Nikolija Milošević and Bogdan Grad both picked up impressive wins inside the Octagon. Grad has a long history with IMMAF. Representing Austria, he competed at three IMMAF World Championships and the 2018 European Championships. His best result came in 2018, when […]
Paul Abraham Nina Nikolija Milošević will make her UFC debut on August 1. She will face Hailey Cowan in the bantamweight division. The fight will take place at UFC Belgrade. It will be the first UFC event ever held in Serbia. For Milošević, the timing could hardly be better. She will enter the organisation in […]
Paul Abraham It was a perfect weekend for seven former IMMAF champions. Axel Sola, Abdul Hussein, Magomed Tuchalov and Rizvan Kuniev all won at UFC Abu Dhabi: Ankalaev vs. Guskov. Eliezer Kubanza, Nkosi Ndebele and Rasul Magomedov also picked up victories at PFL Washington. Axel Sola was the quickest of the seven. The Frenchman submitted […]
Over the past two days, IMMAF Vice President Wissam Abi Nader and I met with His Excellency Abdulmunem Al Hashmi, President of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, together with the Local Organising Committee responsible for hosting this year’s IMMAF Youth World Championships. We had very positive and productive discussions covering preparations for […]
Hasan Khan For Stéphane Demonty, MMA officiating is not separate from the martial arts journey. It is another way of understanding the sport in its fullest technical detail. With 40 years of experience across judo, kyokushin, Shotokan karate, Muay Thai, kickboxing, wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA, Demonty brings a rare breadth of knowledge to his […]
Paul Abraham IMMAF will once again be represented inside the Octagon this weekend. At UFC Abu Dhabi: Ankalaev vs. Guskov, Abdul Hussein and Magomed Tuchalov will both make their UFC debuts. The two fighters have very different careers, but they share one thing: both won gold on the amateur circuit before turning professional. Abdul Hussein […]
Paul Abraham Before joining the UFC, Axel Sola built an outstanding amateur résumé. For several years, the Frenchman represented Team France at IMMAF events across the world. During that time, he established himself as one of the best amateur fighters in the world and became one of the faces of French amateur MMA. In 2017, […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is pleased to welcome Federación Colombiana de Artes Marciales Mixtas (FEDEAMM) as its new national member, representing Colombia. Committed to unifying the Colombian MMA landscape, FEDEAMM supports clubs in integrating into the National Sports System. The organisation is led by President Jaime Arturo Peña Vanegas, an MMA practitioner […]
Hasan Khan In mixed martial arts, officials carry a responsibility that extends far beyond the final scorecard or a split-second intervention inside the cage. Their decisions protect athletes, uphold fairness and shape how the sport is understood by coaches, competitors, spectators and governing bodies. For Warren Gill, Commission Chairman and Pan-American Lead, that responsibility is […]
Hasan Khan On 20 March 2017, Argentina took its first official step toward structured mixed martial arts with the founding of the Argentine Association of Mixed Martial Arts and Contact Sports. This initiative emerged from a grassroots coalition of coaches, athletes and their families, united by a shared passion and vision: to establish MMA on […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) Competition Bidding Commission has officially released an updated Championship Bid Book, providing National Federations with a comprehensive framework to apply to host future IMMAF Championships. The updated bid structure reflects IMMAF’s continued commitment to delivering world-class amateur MMA events while supporting the sustainable growth of the sport through […]
After a surprise announcement just days prior, IMMAF Junior World Champion Heorhii Hudz returned to his home nation of Ukraine to make a successful professional debut on June 1 in Kyiv, winning via TKO in the second round. The 19-year-old was widely recognised among the breakout stars of the 2025 IMMAF World Championships, making history by claiming […]
IMMAF Vice President Wissam Abi Nader and IMMAF representative Andrew Moshanov recently attended the Russian MMA Championships in Sochi, where they met with Russian MMA Union President Sergei Fateev. The visit provided an opportunity to review competition operations and strengthen collaboration between IMMAF and the Russian MMA Union following its recent reinstatement as an IMMAF […]
Following a series of recent high-level strategic meetings with key global stakeholders, IMMAF is pleased to confirm that discussions are progressing positively regarding a substantial expansion of long-term commercial, media, and developmental support from Q3 2026 onwards. The discussions involve existing international partners together with major organisations operating across the global MMA, media, broadcasting, and […]
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 […]
Jorden Curran Former IMMAF World Championships medallist Ermal Hadribeaj took one step closer to professional boxing glory, as he defeated previously unbeaten French prospect Bakary Samake to become the mandatory challenger for the WBC junior middleweight world title. Hadribeaj faced Samake on May 23 in Oberhausen, Germany, and produced a relentless performance, showcasing veteran composure with durability and pressure, growing stronger as the bout progressed while Samake faded. The 32-year-old […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is pleased to welcome Janika Antinmaa to its Athletes Commission, strengthening athlete representation with a highly experienced and respected figure from within the global IMMAF community. As a dedicated contributor to the IMMAF platform since 2018, Antinmaa’s athlete achievements as a representative of Team Finland include gold at the 2018 European Championships, silver at the 2018 IMMAF World […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) Board of Directors has unanimously approved the reinstatement of the Russian MMA Union as a member federation. As part of this decision, IMMAF will establish a dedicated Working Group to develop an Action Plan supporting the structured reintegration of Russian athletes into the international competition calendar. The reintegration […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) was represented at the Montenegro Future Festival 2026, where President Kerrith Brown joined global leaders from sport, esports, and technology to discuss the evolving landscape of modern sport. Speaking on the panel “Redefining Sport: How Digital Innovation Is Changing the Game,” Brown shared insights alongside distinguished figures, including […]
The second General Assembly of the African Mixed Martial Arts Confederation convened in Luanda, bringing together representatives from member federations across the continent. Delegates met in person to review annual activities and outline strategic priorities aimed at advancing mixed martial arts throughout Africa. AMMAC and Mauritius Federation President Avinash Ramtohul formally opened proceedings with a […]
By Murdo Todd Former IMMAF World Champion Muhammad Mokaev has been officially announced to face Adriano Moraes at Netflix’s inaugural MMA event, MVP MMA 1: Rousey vs Carano. During his time with IMMAF, Muhammad Mokaev established himself as not only one of the organisation’s greatest competitors, but also one of the most accomplished amateur fighters […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) reaffirms its longstanding partnership with the United Arab Emirates, recognising the nation’s ongoing role in supporting the growth of mixed martial arts worldwide. The UAE has consistently demonstrated a clear vision through sustained investment in athlete development, international events and high performance pathways. This commitment has played a […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is pleased to announce that it will host a Global MMA Summit in Q3 2026, bringing together key stakeholders from across the international MMA landscape. The Summit will serve as a strategic platform for collaboration between national federations, international partners, regulatory bodies, event organisers, and industry experts, with […]
By Murdo Todd Former IMMAF Youth World Champion Raul Rosas Jr. came away with the biggest win of his pro career at UFC 326, overcoming perennial contender Rob Font via unanimous decision. At just 21 years old, Rosas Jr. is now 6-1 in the UFC and riding a five-fight winning streak after dropping a contest […]
Jorden Curran What happens when a fighter establishes himself as the best in his division, only to find that his greatest obstacle is one of the sport’s all-time talents? That question defined the rivalry between Reo Yamaguchi and Muhammad Mokaev, who faced each other three times across the 2018–2019 IMMAF competition schedule. After qualifying for Team Japan in 2017 […]
BRAVE Combat Federation has renewed its partnership with the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) for 2026, continuing its support of the global amateur MMA pathway. The agreement reinforces the link between amateur development and professional opportunity, with BRAVE remaining a key supporter of IMMAF’s international events and initiatives. Since the beginning of their collaboration, […]
By Murdo Todd IMMAF alumna Regina Tarin made good on her short-notice UFC debut, defeating Ernsesta Kareckaite in front of a home crowd in Mexico City, Mexico. Tarin, who won silver for Team Mexico at the 2022 Youth World Championships, took the fight on just three days’ notice, but despite a lack of training camp, […]
Amateur MMA is more than a training ground for future professionals; it is a carefully structured sport for youth and adults where philosophy, technical syllabus, tactics, and officiating work together to protect athletes and develop their skills. From defining the logic of contest to implementing transparent scoring and backup with video review, IMMAF is building […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has announced the latest renewal of its partnership with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) for 2026. The announcement was made by IMMAF President Kerrith Brown during the 2026 IMMAF European Championships in Belgrade, addressing national leaders gathered at the European MMA Federation AGM meeting. The UFC stands as IMMAF’s […]
RDX Sports has renewed its partnership with the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation for 2026, continuing its role as the organisation’s official equipment supplier and partner. The renewal was confirmed during the 2026 IMMAF European Championships in Belgrade, where RDX equipment was used throughout the event by athletes, coaches, referees, officials, and medical teams. IMMAF […]
On the 14th of February 2026, European members of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) gathered in Belgrade for the first European Elective General Assembly, marking a milestone moment for the governance and future direction of amateur MMA across the continent. Delegates reviewed the manifestos of the nominated candidates, each underscoring key priorities: strengthening […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation will hold the 2026 IMMAF European AGM tomorrow in Belgrade, bringing together representatives from across the continent to review governance matters and elect new leadership. Date: 14 February 2026Time: 12 noonLocation: Pavilion 5, EXPO PLAYGROUND, Belgrade Fair, Bulevar vojvode Mišića 14, 11040, Belgrade Below is the official list of […]
Hasan Khan As Serbia prepares to host the IMMAF European Championships the occasion places a natural spotlight on the nation’s athletes. Among them stands a fighter whose journey already reflects the full value of the IMMAF pathway. Nikolija Milošević is a two-time IMMAF Senior World Champion and IMMAF European Champion and remains the only Serbian […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has acknowledged a key governance development within African mixed martial arts, following the appointment of Angola’s Armando Carlos Diogo as Interim Second Vice President of the Africa MMA Confederation. The decision was approved by majority vote during a duly constituted AMMAC Board meeting held on 30 January 2026, […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation continues to strengthen its commitment to anti doping education and awareness, reinforcing the principles and values that underpin CLEAN MMA. As part of this commitment, anti doping education seminars are now mandatory for all athletes participating in IMMAF International Championships. Delivered by the International Testing Agency, these sessions are […]
Timur Bobylev made history for Czech MMA on the world stage, becoming the first-ever European Youth Champion for the Czech Republic, at the 2026 IMMAF European Championships, taking place from 5-15 February. Representing the national team of the Czech Association of MMA (CSMMA), at the largest European Championships to date with over 1000 athletes, 13-year-old […]
IMMAF President Kerrith Brown recently completed a working visit to Malaysia, where he met with the newly appointed leadership of the Malaysian Mixed Martial Arts Federation to explore opportunities for future collaboration and event development. During the visit, President Brown held a series of productive meetings focused on strengthening the relationship between IMMAF and the […]
Hasan Khan IMMAF’s commitment to raising global coaching standards continued in Morocco as Andrew Moshanov, IMMAF Director of Sports Development, delivered a Level 2 Coaching Course alongside former IMMAF World Champion José ‘Ze’ Machado. Following the federation’s Level 1 course two years ago, this advanced certification focused on the practical realities of preparing athletes for […]
The Dominican Federation of Mixed Martial Arts (FEDOARMIX) has received official recognition from the Ministry of Sports and Recreation (MIDEREC). On 28 January 2026, the Vice Minister of Sports of the Dominican Republic, Mr Evaristo Pérez, formally presented a Certificate of Recognition to a FEDOARMIX delegation, confirming its status as the officially recognised governing body […]
Hasan Khan Greg Jackson is one of the most influential figures in modern MMA. Co-founder of Jackson Wink MMA Academy and a multi-time Coach of the Year, he has shaped the careers of several world champions while continuously redefining what it means to coach. Today, his focus is broader than ever. As part of the […]
Hasan Khan Randy “The Natural” Couture’s name is synonymous with excellence in mixed martial arts. A six-time UFC world champion and former U.S. Army sergeant Couture is recognised not only for his achievements inside the cage, but for the discipline, humility and resilience that defined his career. Today, as a new addition to the UFSL’s […]
As I return to my duties after laying my wife to rest, I am reminded of the values she lived by: honesty, integrity, and doing what is right even when it is difficult. Those values guide everything I say today. For more than a decade, IMMAF has built the global foundation of amateur Mixed Martial […]
Change takes effect from the 2026 European Youth Championships The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) will transition to the year-born system for all youth divisions (D, C, B, and A) starting in 2026, replacing the current date-of-birth eligibility rule. This change aligns IMMAF with international sport standards, creating a simpler and fairer framework for […]
Hasan Khan Aldric Cassata has quietly become the architect of France’s MMA identity, a fighter turned national coach whose strategic coaching and passionate advocacy helped launch some of France’s most prominent modern MMA stars. Now joint head coach of the French national amateur MMA team, Cassata charts a path for the next generation of athletes […]
IMMAF has announced a restructuring of its operations to further enhance efficiency and coordination in the areas of education and sports development. Under the new structure, all activities related to Coaches, Officials, Youth, Education and Certification will be consolidated within the SPORTS DEPARTMENT. These areas will be led by Andrew Moshanov, who will oversee the […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has released This Is Sport, a landmark publication that captures the data, stories, and progress driving the world’s fastest-growing combat sport. Compiled by IMMAF’s Strategy & Development department, the report brings together federation participation data, medical research, gender representation, and sustainability initiatives — offering a first-of-its-kind look at MMA’s […]
Hasan Khan Amateur mixed martial arts in Slovakia has experienced a sharp and strategic ascent in recent years, transforming from a loosely organized pursuit into a nationally coordinated sport. At the forefront of this progress is the Slovak MMA Association (SZMMA), also known domestically as MAMMAL, which has steadily built a reputation for responsible governance, […]
Hasan Khan David Iberico Celis, better known in MMA circles as “Escorpión”, has been instrumental in transforming mixed martial arts in Peru. As the founding President of the Asociación Peruana de Mixed Martial Arts (APMMA), he has fused a rich family legacy of combat sports with a bold vision for national athletic progress and global Olympic recognition. Born […]
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, […]
By Jorden Curran The 2025 IMMAF Awards took place on October 30 at the Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel in Tbilisi, Georgia, during the week of the 2025 IMMAF World Championships. The annual occasion, which celebrates the achievements of competitors and national federations, featured 6 athlete focused awards with a total of 31 nominees spanning 22 nations. With […]
By João Vitor Xavier The 2025 IMMAF World Championships came to a thrilling close in Tbilisi, Georgia, as Day 6 delivered an unforgettable finale to an extraordinary week of competition. The Senior Finals showcased world-class performances across the board, once again proving that the future of mixed martial arts is in exceptional hands. Team Bahrain’s […]
By João Vitor Xavier Day 5 of the 2025 IMMAF World Championships in Tbilisi, Georgia, delivered a truly historic evening of competition. The Junior Finals featured a series of thrilling performances that will leave a lasting impression on amateur MMA fans around the world. Ukraine’s Mariia Klein continued her incredible streak of submission victories, capturing […]
By João Vitor Xavier The IMMAF World Championships has evolved in recent years into the leading pathway for female fighters to hone their skills ahead of successful professional careers. From UFC title challenger Manon Fiorot to the likes of Amanda Ribas, Sabrinna de Sousa, and Michelle Montague, IMMAF has provided a clear route for women […]
By João Vitor Xavier The 2025 IMMAF World Championships continued in full stride as Day 3 of competition unfolded in Tbilisi, Georgia. The host nation had plenty to celebrate, with standout performances led by Giorgi Imerlishvili, who shone on the sport’s biggest amateur proving ground. Imerlishvili secured a tremendous KO victory over Team Poland’s Marek […]
By João Vitor Xavier The 2025 IMMAF World Championships continue to gather momentum as Day 2 delivered outstanding performances across the board in Tbilisi, Georgia. Rising athletes from around the globe competed on the sport’s brightest amateur stage, showcasing just how bright the future of MMA truly is. Alisher Kadyraliev kicked off his defence of […]
By João Vitor Xavier Day 1 of the 2025 IMMAF World Championships is in the books, and the athletes have set an incredible pace for a talent-filled week of amateur mixed martial arts in Tbilisi, Georgia. The Round of 32 matchups across 14 categories offered a bright glimpse into the future of the sport. Highlighted […]
Hasan Khan Founded in 2017, the Asociación Peruana de Artes Marciales Mixtas (APMMA) was born from a collective of MMA academies across Peru, supported by municipalities and led by key figures such as David Dacko Ibérico Celis, the federation’s founding president. Their mission was clear: to create structured pathways for competitors at all levels, including […]
The IMMAF Athlete Awards celebrate the standout performers of the past year, honouring excellence across Senior, Junior, and Newcomer categories, with up to five nominees selected in each. Nominations are confirmed by the IMMAF Athletes Commission, based on medals earned and exceptional results at IMMAF Championships. In addition, the Performance of the Year award highlights […]
Hasan Khan Benjamin Bush has emerged as one of the most influential figures in African mixed martial arts, spearheading MMA Zambia’s rise with deep-rooted vision, tenacity and a community first ethos. As founding President of MMA Zambia, he transformed a once informal sport into a structured body recognised nationally and globally with IMMAF. Beginnings Originally […]
By Cédric Dumas Another weekend of MMA action once again highlighted the global rise of talent shaped through the IMMAF system. Fighters at every stage of their careers delivered finishes, title defences, and breakthrough moments that reinforced the strength of the amateur-to-professional pathway. Cage Warriors 193 once again delivered high-level action, with George Staines (7-0) […]
Hasan Khan In 1999, the Council of Europe issued Recommendation R(99)11 calling for the prohibition of “free fighting contests, such as cage fighting” due to concerns over safety, lack of regulation, and perceived associations with violence and criminality. At the time, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) as a formalised sport was in its infancy. These events […]
By Cédric Dumas Another action-packed week of MMA took place across the globe, with fighters delivering statement wins on major and regional stages alike. From Paris to Central Asia, and from established names to fresh professional debuts, the results once again underscored how the IMMAF pathway continues to produce athletes ready to shine at every […]
Hasan Khan Henry George Nkoro, President of the Nigerian Mixed Martial Arts Federation (NMMAF), has become one of the most influential figures in the rise of mixed martial arts in Nigeria. A former athlete, coach and international referee, he has lived every layer of combat sports and is now leading the country’s MMA movement with […]
Team USA are looking to make a splash at the IMMAF World Championships, building on the success achieved by their younger athletes at the Youth World Championships in July. The 2025 world team roster has been revealed, featuring many new faces that are eager to take the amateur world by storm. Leading the line, however, […]
Hasan Khan In the heart of Central Asia, Kazakhstan has emerged as one of amateur MMA’s true global powerhouses. At the centre of this rise stands Bayan Zhangalov, nationally honoured coach of the Republic of Kazakhstan, architect of structure and quiet force behind many of Kazakhstan’s most remarkable sporting stories. While he is best known […]
By Cédric Dumas The past week was full of action across multiple promotions. Many of these athletes got their start in the IMMAF system, which has consistently prepared fighters to compete at the highest level. Here’s how our IMMAF alumni did this week : On week 2 of the 2025 edition of Dana White’s Contender […]
Hasan Khan Dario Gutierrez, President of the Asociación Uruguaya de Artes Marciales Mixtas Amateur y Profesional (AUAMMAP), has quietly but decisively shaped the development of mixed martial arts in Uruguay. A former amateur athlete in boxing and kickboxing and an internationally respected referee, Gutierrez has been instrumental in giving structure, credibility and opportunity to the […]
By Cédric Dumas IMMAF alumni continued to make their mark on the professional MMA scene this past week, delivering strong performances and impressive wins across multiple events worldwide. Former IMMAF world champion Sabrinna de Sousa (4-0) stayed unbeaten, scoring a unanimous decision win over Saray Orozco (8-8) in the PFL World Tournament Finals. De Sousa, […]
By João Vitor Xavier The continent of Asia was strongly represented at this year’s IMMAF Youth World Championships. Headed by an incredible campaign from Tajikistan, Asian nations were out in force in Al-Ain, delivering memorable performances that highlighted the continued development of MMA across the region. In total, 12 Asian countries returned home with at […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has selected leading direct-to-fan streaming platform provider, Joymo, to revamp and power IMMAF.tv, creating a new digital content hub for the global body for MMA. The dedicated video streaming platform launched last week with live coverage of the IMMAF Youth World Championships in Al Ain, which registered record-breaking […]
Hasan Khan Amateur mixed martial arts in Nigeria has evolved significantly over the past decade, anchored in the formal structures of the Nigerian Mixed Martial Arts Federation (NMMAF), which was founded on 11 March 2014 as the country’s official governing body for amateur MMA. In July 2019, NMMAF officially joined the International Mixed Martial Arts […]
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, […]
By Cédric Dumas Each week, IMMAF Alumni Watch tracks the progress of former amateur standouts as they compete on the professional stage. From title fights to debut victories, these athletes are proving that their experience in IMMAF competition continues to translate into success against seasoned opponents. Here’s who was in action this week : At […]
By João Vitor Xavier The 2025 IMMAF Youth World Championships proved to be a tournament to remember for the Pan-American nations. Traditional powerhouses in professional MMA, Brazil and the United States, delivered strong performances, while Team Mexico exceeded expectations with a breakout campaign of their own. Before the tournament, Ubaldo Marroquin, President of the Mexican […]
By Cédric Dumas Last week, IMMAF veterans once again made waves on the global professional MMA scene. From packed arenas in Abu Dhabi to the bright lights of Lumpinee Stadium and all the way to Mexico and Central Asia, graduates of the amateur world circuit proved why IMMAF remains the premier launching pad to the […]
By João Vitor Xavier The 2025 IMMAF Youth World Championships concluded last Sunday following seven days of non-stop action, offering MMA fans worldwide an exciting glimpse into the sport’s future. From remarkable national team performances to record-breaking social media reach and athlete participation, this year’s event in Al Ain stands as the largest and most […]
The 2025 IMMAF Youth World Championships concluded in style after seven days of non-stop action. Hundreds of athletes converged in Al Ain to showcase the future of mixed martial arts, and they left a lasting impression. From an unforgettable duel between Ukraine and England to the crowning of several new world champions and the cementing […]
The 2025 IMMAF Youth World Championships entered its penultimate day with six divisions in action, showcasing the next generation of talent from across the globe. Once again, young athletes delivered a compelling glimpse into the future of mixed martial arts. Tremendous performances continued as Team England drew level with Ukraine on overall gold medals, thanks […]
Day 5 of the 2025 IMMAF World Championships concluded in style with the first batch of Youth A categories putting on tremendous performances throughout the day. Five different nations were awarded world titles in the five divisions that saw action. Tajikistan, Romania, and Uzbekistan all earned Gold medals, as Team England and Team Ukraine are […]
The 2025 IMMAF Youth World Championships continued at the Al Ain Convention Centre, in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, with a showcase of the international flavour of the competition. Out of nine categories in action, eight different nations won a Gold medal, highlighting the incredible global reach of the IMMAF. South Africa, Serbia, the United States, […]
The 2025 IMMAF Youth World Championships continued at full speed this Wednesday, July 23. The Youth B categories were introduced, with more drama, world-class MMA action and a clear vision of what sports fans can expect in years to come. Youth athletes from all over the world competed across eight weight classes, leaving an indelible […]
Day 2 of the 2025 Youth World Championships showcased exactly why the tournament is a key component of the MMA calendar for the stars of tomorrow. With Youth C in action at the Al Ain Convention Centre, in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, UAE, young athletes from all over the world had the opportunity to test […]
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 […]
By Cédric Dumas This past weekend delivered another wave of strong performances from emerging prospects across the global MMA scene, many of whom continue to build on their solid amateur foundations they started on the IMMAF circuit. With action spread from Brazil to China, and from Europe to the Middle East, a number of rising […]
By João Vitor Xavier A former UFC title challenger, Joe Stevenson currently serves as the president of US Fight League, the American MMA federation under the umbrella of IMMAF. However, as a coach himself, the former fighter is shaping the next generation of mixed martial artists and is hands-on during the preparation of Team USA […]
On June 26, 2025, the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) unveiled a new Medal Reallocation Policy for handling doping disqualifications—with notification en route to rightful recipients and requests for medals to be returned by disqualified athletes. National Federations will have an opportunity to acknowledge receipt and organize delivery of upgrades to the relevant athletes. […]
The IMMAF Regulatory Affairs Department, under the leadership of Director Guilherme Bravo, has officially completed the revision of the IMMAF Rules Book for 2025. The updated manual is set for release before the Youth World Championships, scheduled for 20–27 July 2025 in Al Ain, UAE. “This edition brings not only structural clarity and updated competition […]
Hasan Khan Martin Lewandowski, President and founder of MMA Polska, has been a pivotal figure in shaping the landscape of mixed martial arts in Poland. Driven by a vision to professionalise amateur MMA, he leveraged over two decades of experience from the professional MMA scene, most notably as the founder of KSW, Europe’s leading MMA […]
By Cédric Dumas The second event of the 2025 PFL Europe season took place in Brussels this past weekend, offering fans a showcase of promising talent, including several IMMAF alumni making strides in their professional careers. The packed ING Arena witnessed strong performances from athletes who continue to build on their amateur foundations on the […]
By Hasan Khan In a region where combat sports have long been undervalued and underfunded, MMA Zambia has emerged as a symbol of structure, discipline and opportunity. Since its induction into the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) in July 2020, the federation has rapidly evolved from grassroots beginnings into a respected national governing body. […]
By Cédric Dumas This past weekend in Manchester, undefeated lightweight Omar Tugarev (8-0) seized the moment, stepping in on short notice to headline Cage Warriors 191 to fight for the interim lightweight title. Facing James Power in the main event, the 23-year-old Finnish prospect dominated the grappling exchanges, eventually securing a crucifix position in round […]
Hasan Khan As part of its continued drive to raise standards in athlete welfare, IMMAF has announced that its Safeguarding Liaison, Sophie Mueller, will begin the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Certificate: Safeguarding Officer in Sport course this September. The course, which is globally recognised and the first of its kind, marks a significant development in […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has implemented a new Medal Reallocation Policy, aimed at upholding the integrity and fairness of competition in cases where an athlete is disqualified due to a failed doping examination. The policy, approved by the IMMAF Board on May 28, 2025, has been developed in consultation with the IMMAF Athletes Commission […]
Hasan Khan Mgr. Ing. Marek Herda stands as the driving force behind the Slovak MMA Association (SZMMA), guiding the federation through a period of structured growth, educational innovation and international recognition. With academic credentials in engineering and law from the Slovak University of Technology and the Pan-European University of Law, Herda combined his passion for martial arts with […]
By Cédric Dumas The UFC made its first-ever stop in Azerbaijan, with several former IMMAF standouts taking centre stage on this historic card. An all-IMMAF showdown kicks off our IMMAF alumni watch as Muhammad Naimov (13-3) edged out fellow alum Bogdan Grad (15-3) by decision in a high-paced and thrilling contest. Grad, a product of […]
Hasan Khan Established in May 2019 in Warsaw, the MMA Polska Association was established to bring structure, integrity and good governance to amateur mixed martial arts in Poland. Inspired by a vision to promote combat sports education, foster a thriving amateur MMA community and cultivate a positive image of the sport, MMA Polska has swiftly […]
By Cédric Dumas It was a packed weekend of action for IMMAF alumni across the globe, as former amateur standouts showcased their talents on some of the sport’s biggest stages. Here’s a look back at the standout performances from our rising stars turned professionals. One of IMMAF’s all-time greats, Muhammad Mokaev (14-0), faced Brazil’s Thomas […]
Hasan Khan In a country known for its rich sporting tradition, the development of mixed martial arts in Morocco has become a story of leadership, resilience and strategic growth. Establishment and Recognition Established in September 2018 under the high directives of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the Moroccan MMA Federation swiftly garnered formal recognition from […]
By Cédric Dumas It was a busy weekend for IMMAF alumni around the globe, with several former medalists taking centre stage across major MMA cards. Here’s a recap of the standout performances by our federation’s former athletes. At UFC 316, 2018 IMMAF World silver medalist Andreas Gustafsson (12-2) finally got his shot in the spotlight […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is proud to announce that refugee athletes will now be able to participate as neutral competitors in IMMAF Championships, as members of a recognised international team, upholding IMMAF’s commitment to inclusivity, fairness, and the development of mixed martial arts talent worldwide. Refugee athletes, or those under Temporary Protection, […]
More than 1,000 participants have registered for the 14th MMA Championships, set to take place on June 7 in Poland, organized by the MMA Poland Association. This marks the highest attendance ever recorded for an amateur MMA competition in Poland—and the largest of its kind in Europe. Starting with this edition, the tournament will officially […]
By Cédric Dumas The spotlight was on IMMAF alumni at EFC 124, where a thrilling night of action unfolded in Sandton, South Africa. South Africa’s Coenie Lamprecht (1-0), who captured the world’s attention by claiming five straight submission victories at the 2024 IMMAF Youth World Championships and securing gold for his effort, made his much-anticipated […]
The International Testing Agency (ITA), on behalf of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF), have reported that Ukrainian athlete Ivan Pasych has been sanctioned with a 4-year period of ineligibility after testing positive for the prohibited substance meldonium. Pasych was suspended following an incompetition control on 30 September 2022 during the 2022 IMMAF European […]
By Cédric Dumas It was another action-packed weekend across the globe for IMMAF alumni, with standout performances from veterans of the amateur circuit now making waves in the professional ranks. In Kazakhstan, Naiza FC 73 featured multiple IMMAF veterans showcasing their evolution. The main event saw the conclusion of a storied rivalry between two of […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is proud to officially welcome Ms. Rasha Mohammed Alkhamis as the newly appointed Chairwoman of the Saudi Mixed Martial Arts Federation. Ms. Alkhamis’ appointment marks a significant milestone for both Saudi Arabia and the global MMA community. Her election is a reflection of her steadfast commitment to advancing […]
By Cédric Dumas While the world’s biggest MMA promotion took a break for Memorial Day Weekend, all eyes turned to regional circuits around the globe, and former IMMAF standouts seized the spotlight. Leading the charge was two-time IMMAF world champion Aieza Bertolso, who extended her perfect professional record to 6-0 on Friday night. Competing in […]
Hasan Khan Dr. Armando Carlos Diogo has emerged as one of the most influential figures in African combat sports, redefining the intersection of social progress and athletic development in Angola. As President of the Federação Angolana de MMA (FAMMA) and the visionary behind the internationally recognised CrimeZero project, Dr. Diogo has shown how sport, particularly […]
By Murdo Todd Former IMMAF World and European Champion Sani Brännfors (Finland) made a statement in her professional debut, securing a second-round knockout victory at Cage MMA 66 in Helsinki this past weekend. Competing on the main card, the Finnish phenom showcased the elite skills that saw her dominate the amateur scene for years. Her […]
Hasan Khan At the 2025 World Police Summit in Dubai, the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) and Dubai Police formalised a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing law enforcement training through structured Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) education and coaching systems. The agreement establishes the foundation for a global coaching framework tailored for […]
The 2025 IMMAF Youth World Championships are set to be the largest youth amateur MMA event in history, as rising talents from around the world gather to compete for the prestige of IMMAF gold. This year, IMMAF returns to the United Arab Emirates, with the Championships taking place for the first time at the Al […]
By Frank Bonada The 2025 IMMAF Africa Championships heralded a bright future for African MMA, with the level of competition reaching new heights. Hosted by the Angolan MMA Federation, athletes across the Youth, Junior, Senior, and newly introduced Masters divisions showcased that African MMA now stands shoulder-to-shoulder with its European, Asian, and Pan-American counterparts. Host […]
By Frank Bonada Day two of the 2025 IMMAF Africa Championships saw Youth A athletes take centre stage in Luanda, Angola, delivering another thrilling day of competition. After going without medals on day one, Team South Africa rebounded impressively, securing three gold medals with standout submission performances. Caitey Karagiannidis set the tone for the team, […]
By Frank Bonada The 2025 IMMAF Africa Championships opened in Luanda with the Youth B and C divisions competing for the honour of continental gold. Host nation Angola made a strong statement, topping the medals table with a series of standout performances. Among the highlights was 13-year-old Gisela Luna, who solidified her reputation as one […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is proud to announce that the 2025 IMMAF World Championships will take place in Tbilisi, Georgia this September. The event marks the beginning of a three-year hosting agreement with the Georgian Mixed Martial Arts National Federation. IMMAF President Kerrith Brown shared the following statement: “On behalf of the […]
Two time IMMAF Youth World Champion Zamzam Al Hammadi (UAE) has officially signed an amteur contract with PFL MENA marking a significant milestone in the promising career. At just 17 years of age, Al Hammadi has emerged as a defining figure in the amateur MMA scene. In 2023, she become the first Emirati woman to […]
By Murdo Todd Former IMMAF Africa Champion Luthando Biko (South Africa) continued his impressive run this past weekend with a second-round TKO victory at Brave CF 93 in Zhengzhou, China. Biko defeated 30-fight veteran Zinbo Zou via elbows in the final seconds of round two in a catchweight bout, improving his professional record to 13–3. […]
By Murdo Todd Former IMMAF World Champion Cary Miller made a successful transition to the professional ranks following an accomplished amateur career that saw him claim multiple titles. The 28-year-old North Carolina native faced off with former undefeated amateur Jacen Edwards at Dead Serious 57. Showcasing years of experience on the IMMAF circuit, Miller claimed […]
By Frank Bonada In a landmark week for Irish MMA, two of the nation’s top amateur standouts, Kiya O’Sullivan and Kerry Ann Vernon, take the next step in their careers, signing professional contracts with two of the sport’s leading promotions. Fresh off a dominant run at the 2025 IMMAF European Championships, Kiya O’Sullivan has signed […]
By Murdo Todd With the 2025 IMMAF Africa Championships fast approaching, Team Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is finalising preparations for what promises to be another strong showing on the continental stage. Hoping to build on their strong showing at the 2024 Africa Championships, where they secured five medals (2x gold, 1x silver, 2x bronze), […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is happy to announce the appointment of Joanna Cook to its Safeguarding Commission. Joanna Cook brings with her a wealth of experience from the elite sporting world, with a proven track record in high-performance leadership, pathway development, and safeguarding. She currently serves as the Performance Lead for British […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is pleased to announce the successful application of a new Indonesian MMA federation, marking a significant step forward in the development of amateur MMA in the country. Since 2019, the Indonesia Committee for Martial Art Sports, known as Komite Olahraga Beladiri Indonesia (KOBI), has been the official IMMAF […]
The Danish MMA Federation has announced a significant change for the 2025 Danish MMA Championships, bringing back the tournament format. After listening to feedback from athletes and members, the federation has opted for a new structure that closely aligns with international competition standards. The championships will take place over three days, from August 15 to […]
The Uruguay MMA Federation is set to reach a major milestone in its MMA development as it prepares to host its national championships on April 13, 2025. This landmark event will not only highlight the country’s top amateur talent but also mark a historic collaboration with the Argentina MMA Federation. For the very first time, […]
By Hasan Khan In mixed martial arts (MMA), success is a relentless pursuit, an unforgiving trial of endurance, tactical sharpness, and sheer willpower. At the 2025 IMMAF European Championships, England’s Youth athletes embodied all three, seizing their moment under the bright lights of international competition. With 39 medals, including 13 gold, they didn’t just compete; […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is delighted to announce the appointment of Sharon Ogaji to its Safeguarding Commission. With an extensive background in sports safeguarding and athlete welfare, Ogaji brings a wealth of expertise to IMMAF’s efforts in promoting safe and ethical sporting environments. Ogaji is a dedicated Safeguarding Officer in Sports and […]
By Murdo Todd In a clash of IMMAF alumni, Zambia’s Ken Sekeletu secured the EFC Interim Featherweight Championship with a victory over South Africa’s Roedie Roets. The two faced off in the main event of EFC 121 in Sandton, South Africa. However, the bout ended after the first round when Roets was forced to retire, […]
The Danish Mixed Martial Arts Federation has landed a ground breaking sponsor deal with Denmarks largest MMA promotion, Airtox Dominance FC. Founded in 2024 by former Olympic wrestler and UFC fighter Mark O. Madsen, Airtox Dominance FC has already gained momentum on the Danish MMA scene. Negotiations have been ongoing since November 2024, and the […]
By Murdo Todd Former IMMAF World Champion Alina Dalaslan (Germany) made a successful professional debut this past weekend, winning by third-round TKO stoppage. Representing Germany, Dalaslan claimed gold at the 2024 IMMAF World Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The 24-year-old overcame amateur MMA standouts Marianna Skuba (Ukraine) and Esmira Mammadova (Azerbaijan) before landing a stunning finish […]
By Frank Bonada UFC 313 marked a seismic shift in the light heavyweight division as Magomed Ankalaev dethroned Alex Pereira to claim the UFC World Championship title. While Ankalaev now sits atop the 205lb division in professional MMA, this is not the first time he has reached the summit of the sport. His journey to […]
By Hasan Khan In the rugged heart of Valle Caudina, where mountain trails carve through Moiano’s rocky terrain, Domenico Viscusi is forging a name for himself, one round at a time. Representing Italy’s next wave of MMA talent, Viscusi’s performance at the IMMAF 2025 European Championships may not have ended with gold, but his presence […]
By Murdo Todd At UFC 315, Manon Fiorot (France) will become the first IMMAF alum to compete for a UFC title when she takes on Valentina Shevchenko for the Women’s Flyweight belt. A former IMMAF World Champion, Fiorot claimed gold at the 2017 IMMAF World Championships, defeating Karolina Hulkko and Chamia Chabbi in the final […]
By Hasan Khan The 2025 IMMAF European Championships reached its apex as the Senior Finals delivered a night of seismic shifts, technical brilliance, and statement victories. Established names cemented their dominance, while new champions emerged, etching their names into the sport’s history. Ukraine’s Anna Hyria, reigning Atomweight World and European Champion, moved up to Strawweight, […]
By Hasan Khan The IMMAF 2025 Junior Finals delivered a spectacle of technical mastery and unshakable will. Each bout was a proving ground where raw talent met refined skill, and champions emerged through moments of tactical brilliance. Poland’s Julia Glaz retained her Atomweight crown in commanding fashion against Ukraine’s Polina Oleksiienko. Oleksiienko opened with fast […]
By Hasan Khan As the 2025 IMMAF European Championships near their climax, the cage becomes a proving ground where champions evolve, legacies rewritten, and rising contenders carve their place in history. The stakes have never been higher, and the battles never fiercer. Finland’s Sani Brannfors delivered a performance that defied expectation, abandoning her usual grappling-heavy […]
By Hasan Khan The Belgrade crowd roared as the Junior semi-finals set the stage for another uncompromising day at the IMMAF European Championships, with the Senior quarter-finals delivering a wave of thrilling finishes. IMMAF veteran Kiya O’Sullivan delivered another flawless performance in the Senior Flyweight division, cementing her reputation as one of Ireland’s finest. A […]
By Hasan Khan Day 5 of the 2025 IMMAF European Championships delivered explosive action, as the Junior quarter-finals intensified, while the Senior divisions witnessed a plethora of stunning finishes. Poland’s flyweight dynamo Malgorzata Popowicz wasted no time in dismantling Germany’s multi-medalist Katharina Roesen. Demonstrating pinpoint accuracy and lightning footwork, Popowicz landed a rapid suplex before […]
By Jorden Curran Pictured: (left to right) IMMAF board member Irman Smajic, IMMAF vice-president Wissam Abi Nader, BMMAF president Ludo Boulvin, IMMAF president Kerrith Brown, IMMAF development director Andrew Moshanov. The president of the Belgian MMA Federation (BMMAF), Ludo Boulvin, has informed IMMAF that recognition for Mixed Martial Arts has now been formalised, marking a […]
By Hasan Khan Day four of the 2025 European Championships delivered a thrilling start to the Junior and Senior divisions, setting the stage for high-stakes clashes with multiple TKOs, breakthrough victories from fresh-faced competitors, and the dethroning of reigning champions. Team Slovakia seized the spotlight, with three first-time IMMAF contenders making a dominant entrance onto […]
By Hasan Khan Day 3 of the 2025 IMMAF European Championships delivered a day of remarkable performances, shattering expectations and showcasing the impressive depth of talent within the Youth A divisions. With thrilling victories, unexpected upsets, and the emergence of new champions. Poland’s Ksawery Mosing made a statement in the men’s Strawweight division, successfully defending […]
Excitement surged on Day 2 of the 2025 IMMAF European Championships as the Youth B athletes followed up yesterday’s galvanizing performances with their own remarkable displays of talent and determination. Competing on home turf, Serbia’s Amir Karisik made an immediate impact in the men’s Featherweight division. In his debut appearance, Karisik showcased a seamless combination […]
The 2025 IMMAF European Championships kicked off in spectacular fashion in Belgrade, Serbia, with the highly anticipated Youth divisions taking centre stage. This year marked a significant milestone as the youngest category, Youth D (10–11 years), made its historic debut, further cementing IMMAF’s commitment to the development of grassroots MMA. Meanwhile, Youth C (12–13 years) […]
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 […]
By Cauley Quilty With the 2025 IMMAF European Championships fast approaching, athletes across the continent are readying themselves for the battles to come. Meanwhile, three IMMAF alumni were in action as the UFC ventured to Saudi Arabia for only the second time in promotional history. Bogdan Grad (Austria), Shamil Gaziev (Bahrain) & Muhammad Naimov (Tajikistan) […]
By Murdo Todd With under two weeks to go until the 2025 IMMAF European Championships kicks off, over 800 of the finest amateur fighters from across the continent are wrapping up their preparation. Germany, fielding a team of 23 strong, will be travelling to Belgrade with a mix of IMMAF veterans and fresh talent, all […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is reinforcing its commitment to athlete safety and well-being by introducing two specialized Safeguarding Courses for its members. These courses are designed to educate and equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure a safe and inclusive sporting environment at IMMAF events. IMMAF has developed two […]
By Cauley Quilty Excitement is at an all-time high as fans eagerly await one of amateur MMA’s premier annual events, the 2025 IMMAF European Championships. This year’s event takes place in Belgrade, Serbia from the 14th to 23rd of February, with all the action broadcast live on IMMAF.TV. Team Ireland will be looking to kick […]
The FK Federation Combat has announced a significant leadership transition, as Donato Milano steps down from his role as President. Milano, a pivotal figure in the expansion of Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Savate, Shoot Boxe, Sambo and MMA in Italy, and on the global stage, leaves behind a legacy of dedication and progress. Under his leadership, […]
By Hasan Khan The far north of Finland, where snow-draped streets meet the icy expanse of the Gulf of Bothnia, might seem an unlikely cradle for the world’s fastest-growing combat sport. Yet here, in Oulu, a spirited revolution in mixed martial arts (MMA) is gaining momentum, fuelled by a close-knit community and igniting the global […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with MMARAP (Mixed Martial Arts for Reform And Progression) to bring inclusivity to the forefront of mixed martial arts. This collaboration will see the adoption of MMARAP’s DILEMMA program, Disability, Inclusion, Learning & Empathy for Mixed Martial Arts. Scheduled for early […]
Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira, one of the most iconic figures in Brazilian mixed martial arts, has been officially named an Ambassador for the IMMAF Technical Grading Scheme. A celebrated pioneer of the sport, Nogueira’s career is marked by an impressive professional record of 34-10-1. As a former Pride FC Heavyweight Champion and Interim UFC Heavyweight Champion, […]
The Mixed Martial Arts Sports Association (MMASA) has been officially recognized as the sole International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) member in Thailand. This designation will see MMASA serve as the gateway for Thai athletes, gyms, and organizers to join the international MMA community. MMASA was formed following the historic registration of Mixed Martial Arts […]
Renato Subotic, a highly respected figure in the global MMA community, has officially joined the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) Coaching Commission. With over 12 years of involvement with IMMAF and 25 years of experience in MMA, Subotic has been instrumental in shaping the careers of fighters worldwide, contributing to the remarkable growth and […]
Location: Kingdom of Bahrain – Khalifa Sports City Dates: 14th – 15th December Event Categories: Youth A, B & C The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is thrilled to announce its return to the Kingdom of Bahrain for the 2024 IMMAF Asian Youth Championships. Following the incredible success of the 2024 IMMAF World Championships, […]
On November 9, during the 2024 IMMAF World Championships finals, the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation hosted a Black Belt Awards Ceremony to honour the extraordinary achievements of 17 distinguished coaches. The black belt, a universal symbol of mastery and dedication in martial arts, was awarded to coaches who have excelled either by producing IMMAF […]
Belgrade, Serbia – Ranko Žeravica Sports Hall Dates: 14 – 23 February 2025 Event Categories: Masters, Senior, Junior & Youth Tournaments Following the landmark 2024 IMMAF World Championships, the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) proudly kicks off the year with the announcement of its first major event: the 2025 IMMAF European Championships. This prestigious […]
On behalf of the IMMAF Board and our CEO, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to every member of the IMMAF staff, volunteers, and the exceptional team at the Uzbekistan MMA Federation. Your hard work and commitment made this landmark event possible. A special thank you goes to our partners—UFC, BRAVE, RDX, all […]
By Jorden Curran The journey of Ireland’s Amy Scully at the 2024 IMMAF World Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, culminated in a sensational achievement as the junior atomweight contender secured the gold medal for the second consecutive year. Amy started her 2024 World Championships campaign with punch perfect momentum, securing a TKO stoppage against Uzbekistan’s Munisa […]
On 9 November 2024, IMMAF members convened for the Ordinary General Assembly to review the 2023 achievements and chart strategic goals for the future. President Kerrith Brown, Interim Vice President Wissam Abi Nader, special guest Minister of Sport Adkham Ilkhamovich Ikramov, and the IMMAF Board of Directors were in attendance. CEO Densign White led the […]
By Jorden Curran In a powerful testament to Uzbekistan’s growing influence in global combat sports, the nation took first place in the 2024 IMMAF World Championships medal standings. Hosted from November 5-10 in Tashkent, the championship showcased Uzbekistan’s largest-ever MMA team, with an impressive 70 athletes across junior and senior divisions. This achievement follows Uzbekistan’s stellar […]
By Frank Bonada The final day of the 2024 IMMAF World Championships saw the top junior athletes from across the globe competing for the honour of IMMAF gold. In a series of high level bouts, reigning champions and fresh contenders alike battled for their place in amateur MMA history. The opening bout featured an eagerly […]
Day 5 of the 2024 IMMAF World Championships saw IMMAF’s finest compete in the Senior Finals, delivering high-stakes battles and historic achievements. Finland’s Sani Brännfors cemented her legacy in the Women’s Bantamweight division by defeating Spain’s Mercedes Custodio with a rear-naked choke, making her the first female athlete to clinch gold across all IMMAF levels: […]
By Frank Bonada Day 4 of the 2024 IMMAF World Championships brought fierce competition once again as athletes competed relentlessly for a coveted spot in the World Championship finals. The day was marked by unexpected upsets, with several reigning world and continental champions falling, clearing the way for a new wave of amateur talent. Among […]
By Frank Bonada Day 3 of the 2024 IMMAF World Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan once again raised the bar, as athletes competed for coveted semi-final spots, with standout performances across multiple divisions. 2023 Atomweight World Champion Amy Scully (Ireland) started her campaign in commanding form, securing a first-round victory to advance. Meanwhile, her potential final-round […]
On November 1, 2024, the Africa MMA Confederation (AMMAC) held its first elective Annual General Meeting (AGM) in an online session, attended by IMMAF President Kerrith Brown, CEO Densign White, and Africa Director Raymonde Phillips. This landmark event resulted in the election of AMMAC’s first official president, vice presidents, and board of directors, marking a […]
The Asia MMA Federation (AMMAF) convened its inaugural elective general assembly on November 5, 2024, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, coinciding with the IMMAF World Championships. Most member federations were present in person, with Japan and Kyrgyzstan participating virtually. Asia IMMAF Vice President Wissam Abi Nader was also in attendance at this pivotal gathering. IMMAF President Kerrith […]
By Jorden Curran Poland’s newest MMA sensation Magdalena Czaban extended her professional record to 2-0 in a powerful display of skill and composure at Invicta FC 58 in Kansas City on November 6. This marked Czaban’s USA debut, and she delivered a standout performance against fellow IMMAF alum, Jessica Hope Holmes. Czaban turned professional in […]
By Frank Bonada The excitement intensified on Day 2 of the 2024 IMMAF World Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, where major upsets and rising stars took the spotlight, reshaping the competition landscape. 2023 IMMAF Silver Medalist Malik Basahel (Saudi Arabia) was in exceptional form. Having competeted three times as an amateur for PFL, Basahel returned to […]
By Frank Bonada The 2024 IMMAF World Championships launched in spectacular fashion at Tashkent’s Humo Arena, welcoming a global audience to the year’s premier amateur MMA event. In a day that primarily showcased top-tier debut talent, IMMAF veterans Souhil Arezki (France) and Patrik Kutil (Czech Republic) seized the spotlight. Both Arezki, the 2023 IMMAF World […]
In the world of sports, athletes and coaches are mostly focused on building bigger muscles, increasing speed and getting physically stronger. But when it comes to fitness, one of the body’s most powerful organs is often forgotten – the brain. Many challenges, from mental fatigue and lack of focus to concussion and sleeping difficulties, are […]
We have been contacted by many of you in reaction to some rumors pertaining to the recognition of MMA by the IOC, such rumors being spread by GAMMA USA and possibly others after the UWW general assembly held on 27 October 2024 in Albania. Even though we did not have access to UWW meeting or […]
By Frank Bonada As the 2024 IMMAF World Championships rapidly approach, excitement is mounting for amateur MMA’s premier annual event. With national team rosters now set, Team Tajikistan once again stands out as a formidable force poised to make a significant impact on the global stage. At the 2023 IMMAF World Championships, Tajikistan achieved unparalleled […]
By Frank Bonada As the next wave of MMA talent ready themselves for the 2024 IMMAF World Championships, IMMAF alumni worldwide continue to illustrate how a solid amateur foundation is the key to professional success. 2019 IMMAF European Championships bronze medalist Paulin Begai (France) delivered a statement win over Salim El Ouassaidi at Ares FC […]
By Frank Bonada At the UFC 308 press conference in Abu Dhabi, former IMMAF European Open Champion and undefeated professional fighter Nabotov Dorobshokh (Tajikistan) took an unexpected route to make his case for a UFC contract. During the Q&A session, Dorobshokh stepped up to the microphone, addressing UFC President Dana White directly and making a […]
It’s not long now until we meet in Uzbekistan. Putting extra effort into your training? That’s great! But if you don’t recover optimally, you won’t achieve the fitness levels needed to be as competitive as can be. Struggling with cramp? We know it’s an athlete’s nightmare because it has a debilitating effect on performance. To […]
By Frank Bonada At the 2024 IMMAF World Championships, England’s Micah Matibiri will make his long-awaited IMMAF debut on the biggest global stage in amateur MMA. A 5-1 lightweight from Fearless MMA in Birmingham, Matibiri has made a name for himself with a dominant run through the UK regional scene. After suffering his first amateur […]
By Frank Bonada French phenom Souhil Arezki will be looking to impress once again at the biggest amateur MMA event of the year, as he heads to Tashkent, Uzbekistan to defend the Junior Bantamweight World title. Arezki embodies the new generation of amateur athletes emerging from France and Belgium, focused on honing their skills and […]
By Frank Bonada IMMAF alumni continue to make waves on the global stage, as Tobiasz Le (Poland) added yet another highlight reel finish at KSW 99, and Tom Hölemann (Germany) burst onto the pro scene with a stunning debut performance. At KSW 99: Martínek vs. Vojčák, Poland’s Tobiasz Le competed in his seventh professional MMA […]
On October 5, the MMA Polska Association hosted its 11th National MMA Championships in Gliwice, attracting over 760 amateur athletes from across Poland. The event featured five cages with junior, senior, and cadet categories. A total of 763 competitors registered for the tournament, including 66 female competitors. The cadet categories (ages 12-18) saw 337 participants, […]
MMA is one of the most demanding sports out there. We know that, as an athlete, you need to stick to physically and mentally taxing routines. And sometimes, they might get a bit much, especially if you’re experiencing nutrient and energy deficiencies. Your body needs micronutrients, not too little and not too much, in the right […]
By Frank Bonada With a lineup of returning champions and promising prospects set to compete at the 2024 IMMAF World Championships, one newcomer stands out: Nathan Kelly, an Irish flyweight training under the guidance of John Kavanagh at the renowned Straight Blast Gym Ireland. Kelly is an intriguing addition to the IMMAF roster. Although his […]
By Frank Bonada Two former IMMAF standouts will square off at UFC Vegas 100 as England’s Melissa Mullins takes on Poland’s Klaudia Syguła. The bout hold particular historic significance, marking the first time that two IMMAF alumni will face each other in the UFC octagon. 2019 IMMAF European silver medalist Melissa Mullins competed in five […]
By Frank Bonada During a relatively quiet week for MMA, France’s Delphine Benouaich took center stage, extending her impressive winning streak since turning pro in March 2024. An eight-fight IMMAF veteran, Benouaich came tantalizingly close to clinching a Senior World title at the 2023 IMMAF World Championships. After defeating three opponents, including the skilled Spaniard […]
By Frank Bonada Finland’s Sani Brännfors has solidified her status as a dominant force in amateur MMA, holding both IMMAF Youth and Junior World titles, along with an impressive 12-1 record. Yet, despite her success, the pinnacle of amateur MMA remains just beyond her reach. Finland has emerged as a rising force in the IMMAF […]
Abu Dhabi, UAE: In a significant achievement that further solidifies Abu Dhabi’s status as a global hub for combat sports, the Abu Dhabi Martial Arts Academy (ADMA) has announced its official accreditation from the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF). This makes ADMA the first academy in the UAE to receive this prestigious international recognition, […]
By Frank Bonada In the second instalment of the IMMAF Pathways series, we delve into the inspiring journey of Belgium’s Patrick Habirora—a dynamic welterweight whose amateur success has transitioned seamlessly into a highly promising professional career. Overcoming Early Setbacks Despite the dominance Habirora now showcases in the cage, his early IMMAF days were filled with […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is proud to announce a new initiative that empowers athletes to provide valuable feedback on their event experiences. Athletes competing at IMMAF events will now have the opportunity to share their insights, helping shape future improvements. The athlete feedback survey, spearheaded by IMMAF Development Consultant Jorden Curran in […]
We’re five weeks away from Uzbekistan. How are you feeling? We hope you’re building up your energy levels to be at the top of your game in November. Wondering how your body creates and maintains constant energy? Our partner would like to talk to you about ‘mitochondria’. Mitochondria are tiny compartments located within the cell. […]
The French Mixed Martial Arts Federation (FMMAF) has seen remarkable growth across multiple fronts during the 2023/2024 season, further solidifying its position as a leading force in European MMA. From a surge in licensed fighters and technical grades to an increase in competitions and impressive national team performances, FMMAF continues to lay a strong foundation […]
By Frank Bonada After emerging as one of the breakout stars of 2023, newly crowned IMMAF Junior World Champion Yana Shelemba has her sights set on capturing a second World Championship gold medal in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The 2023 IMMAF World Championships featured a host of incredibly talented returning athletes, including the likes of Otabek Rajabov […]
By Frank Bonada In the first week of October, two former IMMAF Champions made waves with statement victories, continuing their ascent in the professional MMA scene. At Octagon 64, two-time IMMAF World Champion Yersultan Shakenbay delivered an impressive pro debut. The Kazakh flyweight squared off against Dastan Kanybek Uulu in a fiercely contested flyweight bout […]
By Frank Bonada After an extraordinary year of competition in 2023, Bahrain’s Gadzhi Gadzhiev is once again poised to compete for the highest accolades in amateur MMA as he prepares for the 2024 IMMAF World Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Gadzhiev, already one of the most decorated athletes in IMMAF history, is looking to cement his legacy further […]
By Frank Bonada Two former IMMAF champions are set to clash in the pro ranks as Magdalena Czaban (Poland) vs. Hope Holmes (USA) has been officially announced for Invicta 58. This highly anticipated matchup between two rising stars in women’s MMA promises to be a thrilling showcase of elite talent, cultivated through their time on […]
Last week, our partner illustrated some of the most common challenges facing athletes. Today, they’re shining the light on the ultimate issue: dehydration at the cellular level. Struggling to perform at your best lately? Do you always feel fatigued, get cramp and take long to recover? Dehydration is the likeliest culprit. Dehydration can negatively impact […]
By Frank Bonada At just 16 years old, Slovakia’s Mirko Mlyncek has firmly established himself as one of the latest rising stars of Youth MMA. The reigning IMMAF European Champion in the Youth A 61.2kg division, Mlyncek most recently secured bronze at the 2024 IMMAF Youth World Championships. In an interview with IMMAF, Mlyncek shared […]
By Frank Bonada The last week of September saw a number of IMMAF alumni claim victories across the professional world of Mixed Martial Arts. France’s Axel Sola, a true veteran of IMMAF competition and now one of the top European prospects in pro MMA, was in emphatic form at ARES 25. The former multi-time IMMAF […]
IMMAF President Kerrith Brown had a productive conversation with Otabek Umarov, a key figure in the rise of combat sports in Central Asia, as preparations ramp up for the 2024 IMMAF World Championships. Umarov, who serves as Vice President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), President of the Central Asian MMA Confederation, and Deputy […]
Training hard for the tournament in Uzbekistan or an upcoming fight? We know that intense training can take its toll on the body and mind. Our partner recognises this too, and they’re sure you’ll have experienced challenges at some point that have affected both your performance and overall fitness. They’ve identified some of the most […]
By Frank Bonada Reigning IMMAF Sr. Featherweight World Champion Elias Erber will be looking to retain his title at the 2024 IMMAF World Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. One of the most accomplished athletes on the current IMMAF roster, Erber’s run of dominance over the past two years has solidified his status as one of amateur […]
IMMAF is excited to announce a new partnership with MMAON, a revolutionary platform designed to empower athletes, federations, and trainers within the MMA community. What is MMAON? MMAON is a one-stop platform that provides a comprehensive suite of tools and resources specifically tailored for the needs of the MMA world. Whether you’re a seasoned fighter, […]
It’s Week 2 and we’re ready to introduce the science of what makes you perform at your best. Our partner has shared some enlightening education on the building blocks that make up your body – your cells. Your body is composed of 100 trillion cells. They provide structure, enable the absorption of nutrients, excrete waste, […]
At IMMAF, we’re dedicated to looking after your well-being. Your fitness and safety, whether in training, competitive matches or your everyday life, is our top priority. Eighteen months ago, we started on a journey to select a solution that truly nurtures your fitness and aids you with optimal hydration, deep sleep, enhanced recovery and brain […]
We are delighted to announce that Daniyal Shamkhalov has agreed terms to become IMMAFs Lead Safeguarding Officer. The 25-year-old attended IMMAF’s Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi as part of the Safeguarding staff and will now Lead on IMMAF’s approach to safeguarding for future events. A graduate from Uppsala Universitet with a Master of Law, […]
By Frank Bonada Former IMMAF European and World Cup Gold Medalist Cecilie Bolander is set for the biggest test of her pro career to date as she takes on former UFC fighter Lucie Pudilová in a No.1 contender bout at OKTAGON 61. Scheduled for September 21st, this highly anticipated matchup will determine the next top […]
Today, we embark on a compelling, 10-week journey that will educate and transform your understanding of fitness and well-being at a cellular level. Because, what happens if you haven’t treated your cells properly? Tired, not feeling fully sharp, prone to cramps and injury. You pushed yourself so hard yesterday, and today your body is simply […]
By Frank Bonada Former IMMAF Youth World Champion Raul Rosas Jr. has once again etched his name into the history books, this time at UFC 306, where he became the first fighter to secure a victory at Las Vegas’ cutting-edge venue, The Sphere. The 19-year-old standout claimed a unanimous decision win over China’s Aoriqileng, adding […]
By Frank Bonada Former IMMAF medalist and Austrian Mixed Martial Arts Federation representative Bogdan Grad has officially signed with the UFC, following a standout performance on Dana White’s Contender Series 2024: Week 3. Born in Romania, Grad represented his adopted home of Austria throughout his IMMAF career, where he established himself as one of Europe’s […]
By Frank Bonada Day 6 of the 2024 IMMAF Pan American Championships concluded in spectacular fashion, with athletes from across the Americas battling for the coveted title of Pan American Champion. In a thrilling day of finals, Teams USA, Mexico, and Brazil dominated the podium, whilst Uruguay, Peru and Jamaica Team USA impressed across both […]
By Frank Bonada Day 5 of the 2024 IMMAF Pan American Championships saw the next generation of South and North American amateur MMA athletes go head to head for a spot in tomorrow’s finals. Team USA got off to a strong start, with Irann Orozco leading the charge in the Women’s Junior Atomweight division. She […]
By Frank Bonada On Day 4 of the 2024 IMMAF Pan American Championships, fans from around the world tuned in to witness the rising stars of Pan American MMA showcase their talents in front of a lively Mexican crowd. The action kicked off with the first Junior bout of the tournament, where Alejandro Cantu Rodriguez […]
Athletes Commission’s Smajic and Shamkhalov Comment on Growth of Youth MMA After Attendance at 2024 IMMAF Youth Championships 2024 was another history-making year for the IMMAF Youth World Championships. Hosted in Abu Dhabi by the UAE MMA Federation, the 2024 IMMAF Youth World Championships demonstrated that elite youth competition might just be the fastest growing […]
Ahead of our 2024 World Championships in Uzbekistan, IMMAF President Kerrith Brown flew out to Tashkent to meet with Asian MMAF president Mohammed Qamber, Uzbekistan Sports Minister Afkham Ikramov, General secretary of NOC of Uzbekistan Oybek Kasimov and vice president of NOC Uzbekistan Sherzod Tashmatov. Speaking on the meeting ahead of our championships in November, […]
The finals of the 2024 IMMAF Asian Championships served fans with the finest action in amateur MMA this Thursday, August 22, in Lahore, Pakistan. And the women involved stole the men’s thunder putting on amazing shows and being the highlight of the final day of competitions. Starting in the Atomweight division with Bano Butt, from […]
The excitement for the premier amateur tournament in Asian MMA continues at an all-time high, with 38 bouts taking over Lahore, Pakistan, with several incredible performances highlighting the truly growing technical prowess of Asian amateur athletes. The festival of stoppages was led by 2023 Asian champion, Tajikistan’s Ibrohim Rahimzod (pictured), who had a picture-perfect spinning-back […]
After two bouts made up Day 1, the 2024 edition of the Asian IMMAF Championships began in earnest with 33 matches taking fans all over Asia with a series of displays from the continent’s finest young athletes, assembled in beautiful Lahore, Pakistan. Tajikistan were the big winners of Day 2 with 11 overall victories, including […]
After five fantastic days of fighting, the third IMMAF Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi came to a close with an exhilarating final day. Finalising the Youth A category, we saw Serbia, Slovakia and the Czech Republic claim their first medals of the tournament, whilst South Africa and Spain claimed their first gold. Girls Kicking […]
As President of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation, I am proud to have returned to the UAE for the fourth time in our history. This Championship marks the third year running that the Youth World Championships have taken place in collaboration with the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation. With 850 athletes from […]
In the penultimate day of the Youth World Championships, our fighters put on one hell of a show. The Youth A category athletes took to the fighting area in style as teams from across the world showcased their talent. We had first medals of the competition for Spain, South Africa and Finland, and we enjoyed […]
The IMMAF Youth World Championships returned for another day of fighting action at the Mubadala Arena as the rest of Youth B took to the ring. 34 more medals were up for grabs, and our athletes didn’t disappoint. We had first medals of the tournament for Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, as well as a […]
After an action-packed opening day, the Youth World Championships returned to the Mubadala Arena for another scintillating flurry of fights. Our athletes from the Youth B category took to the ring from 10am until 5pm to earn their chance at stardom. A further 26 medals were handed out during today’s proceedings. Ukraine reached the podium […]
We had an action packed first day of the IMMAF Youth World Championships which was filled with excitement, elation, heartbreak, sportsmanship, and talent. Athletes from over 19 countries, within Youth group C, took to the ring between 10am-6pm to fight it out for glory in the Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi. A spectacular opening ceremony […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is delighted to reconfirm its ground-breaking partnership with Cellnutrition Sport, the world’s leading developer of cellular fitness solutions, in the run-up to this year’s MMA Youth World Championships. The collaboration aims at maximising fighters’ safety and performance before, during, and after the tournament, with a close focus on brain hydration and […]
The Youth World Championships have returned to Abu Dhabi for the third year running. 10am GST on August 6th, 2024, will mark the beginning of what we hope will be a record-breaking edition of the championships. Today, teams flocked to the Millenium hotel to complete their registration of their athletes and coaches. Youth male and […]
On July 30th IMMAF President Kerrith Brown, announced IMMAF’s plans to achieve recognition from SportAccord for the sport of MMA. Brown travelled out to Abu Dhabi earlier this week, ahead of IMMAF’s Youth World Championships starting on the 6th of August, to announce a groundbreaking renewal with Abu Dhabi which will see our Youth World […]
IMMAF are delighted to announce that Latvian MMA’s membership has been approved. This agreement will see Latvia join the existing 130 federations under the IMMAF umbrella. Speaking on the new membership, Ivans Stalnojs, the secretary of Latvian MMA, stated: “We are very flattered. IMMAF is number one in the World of Amateur MMA, and it is a great motivation and honour for […]
Taylor Ellis will land in Abu Dhabi for the IMMAF Youth World Championships with plans of becoming the most dominant champion in Youth Amateur MMA Taylor Ellis is not your regular 17-year-old. She is one of the biggest MMA prospects in the United States and her resume speaks for itself. A two-time IBJJF Blue Belt […]
Gisela Luna Fortes Anastacio is hoping to rise as the next big thing in African MMA as she prepares for the IMMAF Youth World Championship The Mixed Martial Arts Ecosystem in Africa has seen a huge boost over the years due to the work of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF). The introduction of […]
Abu Dhabi will be hosting the next three editions of the IMMAF Youth World Championships The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) and the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation have announced a three-year extension for the UAE to host the IMMAF Youth World Championships. This announcement was made during a press conference in […]
On July 28, UAE Warriors 52, one of the leading MMA platforms in the MENA region, provided a stage for an extraordinary display of martial arts prowess. The event featured six IMMAF alumni, including four former world champions, one European champion, and one seasoned veteran. Under the watchful eyes of IMMAF President Kerrith Brown and […]
The International Mixed Arts Federation is delighted to announce that Team Sweden veteran, Daniyal Shamkhalov, will attend the 2024 IMMAF Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi, UAE, as a Safeguarding Officer appointed by the IMMAF Safeguarding Commission. Daniyal, 25, is a member of the IMMAF Athletes Commission and retired from competition in 2022. He remains […]
The Uruguay National MMA Federation (Asociacion Uruguaya de Artes Marciales Mixtas Amateur y Profesional – AUAMMAP) successfully conducted its second national grading event, with over 20 students passing the tests to advance to the next level. The graduation ceremony, organized under the protocol of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF), brought together MMA athletes […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has announced that the 2024 IMMAF Asian Championships will take place during BRAVE International Combat Week from August 18 to 22 in Lahore, Pakistan. Pakistan follows the likes of Bahrain, Colombia, and Serbia to host the marquee event and this will be the first BRAVE International Combat Week […]
Following last year’s successful Championships in Luanda, Angola, it was another fruitful tournament for IMMAF’s African Championships which concluded earlier this month. Hosted in Windhoek, Namibia, 161 athletes from across the continent battled it out for glory over a four-day period. It was the first time ever that the African Championships hosted Youth brackets at the competition, further proof of IMMAF’s dedication to providing a pathway for […]
Martial Arts have long been celebrated for their rich traditions, discipline, and most importantly, the structured path of skill development they offer. The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has embraced this cultural ethos by introducing the Youth MMA Grading progression scheme that has resulted in groundbreaking changes in how people perceive and learn MMA […]
Trinidad and Tobago’s 2024 National MMA Championships crowned 16 new champions and served as a key qualifier for the upcoming IMMAF Pan American Championship in Mexico. The Trinidad and Tobago Mixed Martial Arts Federation successfully hosted the 2024 National Youth and Senior MMA Championships on June 15 at the Easter Regional Indoor Sporting Complex in […]
As of the 29th of June 2024, IMMAF have decided to implement an exclusive new weight category policy which will further protect its athletes and their welfare. The policy will be implemented for the first time at the World Championships in Uzbekistan, this coming October. The board of Directors raised their concerns relating to extreme and […]
The 2024 IMMAF Pan American Championships in Monterrey, Mexico, will include Youth Tournament for the first time in the continental event’s history. The 2024 IMMAF Pan American Championships will make history by introducing its inaugural Youth Tournament, following the example set by other continental tournaments like the IMMAF Asian, African and European Championships. Scheduled to […]
IMMAF were present at Major Events International’s 2024 Hosts and Federations Summit last week. IMMAF CEO Densign White MBE, travelled out to Lausanne Switzerland on Monday 17th of June with the aim of representing our federation and further increasing our opportunities to take IMMAF’s championships further around the world. The summit, designed to provide an environment […]
The five-day event will run from August 6–10 at Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi. Preparations for the 2024 edition of the IMMAF Youth World Championships, scheduled from August 6–10 at Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City, are in full swing as announced this week by the IMMAF and the organizing committee for […]
The 2024 IMMAF Pan American Championship is scheduled to kickstart in August in Mexico The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has announced the dates for the 2024 IMMAF Pan American Championship. The event will be held in Monterrey, Mexico, from August 31 to September 7, and will showcase some of the top amateur MMA […]
The 3rd Mongolian National Youth and Senior MMA Championships in Ulaanbaatar saw record participation. The Mongolian Mixed Martial Arts Federation (MMMAF) hosted the 3rd Mongolian National Youth and Senior MMA Championships in Ulaanbaatar from May 16 to May 18 and saw the participation of more than 200 MMA athletes from around the nation. The event, […]
The Armenian National Federation has begun its preparations for the IMMAF Youth World Championships. The MMA Federation of Armenia organized the Armenian MMA Championship on May 28 and 29 in Yerevan, Dinamo, with nearly 300 athletes participating. Led by Garegin Aghabalyan, president of the MMA Federation of Armenia, the event served as a huge platform […]
On behalf of the IMMAF Board & CEO, I would like to thank our hosts, the Namibia MMA federation, Natasha De Sousa, president of the federation, and her team, as well as Carlos De Sousa for hosting a fantastic African Championships, which held for the first time a Youth edition. I would also like to […]
The stage was all set for Matias Monteiro to unify both African Featherweight titles. But an injury prevented his crowning moment, which opened the way for Jeremie Likobele to be the star of the last day of competitions for the 2024 IMMAF African Championships. Also coming in to unify his division, after winning Junior Lightweight […]
It was a passing of the crown moment for Team Angola, as 2023 Junior Featherweight champion Matias Monteiro (winner above) overcame the challenge of countryman and 2023 Senior Featherweight champion Clelio Diogo to move on to the final. This Saturday, June 1, in the final day of the 2024 IMMAF African Championship, Monteiro will have […]
Day 3 of the 2024 IMMAF African Championships was full of expectations in Windhoek, Namibia, as the promised Champion vs Champion between 2023 Flyweight champion Damian Muller and 2022 & 2023 Bantamweight champion Maurio Silva didn’t disappoint. With a dominant performance, Muller came out victorious with a second-round TKO. Against an original Bantamweight, not only […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has announced a new date and a new host nation for the 2024 IMMAF Asian Championships. The biggest continental tournament for amateur MMA is now set to take place between August 18 and August 22, in Lahore, Pakistan. This will be the first time that the IMMAF Asian […]
The writing had been on the wall since Draw Day, but Damian Muller (pictured above as the winner) nevertheless made it official. With a stunning win over Zambia’s Jonathan Banda, the reigning African Flyweight champion from the host country Namibia will now face Maurio Silva in the quarter-final of the 2024 IMMAF African Championships. Silva, […]
Mr. Brown talked about the efforts of National Federations in Africa and the progress that the sport is making in the continent The 2024 edition of the IMMAF African Championship began yesterday with the first-ever Youth African tournament, marking a significant milestone in the development of MMA on the continent. The action from Windhoek, Namibia, […]
When Gisela Luna (pictured with gold medal) used her slick jiu-jitsu to submit Alicia Capita in the opening bout of the 2024 IMMAF African Championships, she might not have known that she was making history. Gisela became the first-ever youth continental champion from Africa out of the IMMAF system in what was a historic day […]
May 28 will be a historic occasion for the sport of mixed martial arts in the African continent. For the first time ever, the biggest continental amateur tournament, the IMMAF African Championships, will host Youth brackets as part of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation’s efforts to continue building a pathway for young athletes to […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) continues to imprint its foothold as the leader in amateur MMA in Africa with the seventh edition of the African Championships, which takes place in Namibia for the first time. And as we get ready to embark on a historic edition of the tournament, we continue to take […]
As the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) gears up for the eighth edition of the African Championships, the tournament has truly become the biggest fully amateur event taking place in the African continent hosted under the umbrella of the only WADA-signatory governing body for MMA. And throughout the years, the African Championships has provided […]
The Tajikistan MMA Federation hosted last weekend its national youth tournament in preparation for the World Youth Championships under the IMMAF, the only WADA-signatory governing body for MMA. The tremendous success of the event was exemplified by the monumental numbers of young athletes participating, which almost exceeded 700, highlighting the Tajikistan MMA Federation’s commitment to […]
A veteran in the regulatory side of Mixed Martial Arts, Guilherme Bravo took on the important role of Head of Refereeing at the 2024 IMMAF European Championships held in Serbia from March 29 to April 6, and has now been appointed as the new Director of IMMAF Regulatory Affairs. In his new role, Bravo will […]
The tournament was attended by 500 participants, including coaches and athletes, with Maharashtra emerging as the top state. The seventh MMA India National Championship took place from May 8 to May 12, 2024, marking a milestone event for MMA in India as the event witnessed 613 fighters representing 28 States and Union Territories of the […]
In a historic move for the ecosystem of the IMMAF (International Mixed Martial Arts Federation), the Pan-American Federation became the first continental federation to host elections for presidency and board members. The first Electoral General Assembly took place last Thursday, May 16, and was held under the supervision of a legal team to further prove […]
Young amateur stars Bilal Alosmanov and Esmira Mammadova returned as heroes to their native Azerbaijan following an epic campaign at the 2024 IMMAF European Championships, in Serbia. Both athletes were welcomed by Mr. Farid Gayibov, Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan. During the visit, which was also attended by the Azerbaijan MMA Federation president, […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has announced the appointment of Wissam Abi Nader, Valentina David and Mohamed Ali Qamber as the new non-executive directors of the federation. Wissam Abi Nader, previously serving as the Asia Director, has been promoted to interim Vice-President of IMMAF. With a lifelong dedication to martial arts and a […]
Shooting legend Zorana Arunovic (standing in the middle in the photo above) has been impressed with what she has seen during her two-day stay as a Safeguarding Officer of the IMMAF European Championships, in its Youth edition. The tournament ran from March 30 to March 31, with the Junior & Senior editions set to continue from April 2 […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) continues in its mission to further the sport on a global scale with President Kerrith Brown having visited China last week. He was welcomed by the Wushu Management Center of the General Administration of Sport, with the support of the CIMMAF (Chinese International MMA Federation), and fruitful discussions […]
IMMAF is delighted to announce the addition of Amanda Ribas and Irman Smajic as non-executive members of the Board of Directors. Amanda and Irman join the IMMAF Board of Directors as athlete representatives with their combined experience as IMMAF champions and professional contenders enabling the IMMAF leadership to benefit from a world class athlete perspective. […]
In the dynamic setting of the International Convention Center (ICC), IMMAF President Kerrith Brown and CEO Densign White graced the SportAccord World & Business Summit. The prestigious event, hosted by the City of Birmingham and the West Midlands Growth Company from the 7th to the 11th of April 2024, brought together industry leaders and visionaries […]
By IMMAF Development Consultant, Jorden Curran The Arnold Sports Festival took place in Sao Paulo last week and hosted a landmark event for amateur mixed martial arts in Brazil. A three-day MMA showcase, organised by CBMMAD and supported by UFC Fight Pass, hosted competition for both Senior and Junior level competitors, as well as Youth […]
On behalf of the IMMAF Board & CEO I would like to thank our host, the Serbia MMA federation, Luka Nikolic, President of the Serbian MMA Federation, and his team and congratulate them on hosting an amazing European Championship with the inclusion of the Youth categories for the first time in a continental competition. I […]
IMMAF Featherweight world champion Elias Erber (pictured) is well on his way to joining the likes of Ramazan Gitinov, Sabrina Sousa, Bagdat Zhubanysh, and many more before them as a certified IMMAF legend. This Saturday, in Belgrade, Serbia, ‘’No Time’’ added European gold to an already stacked resume with a hugely dominant performance over Ugo-Antton Vidal, who had a dominant run to […]
One of the biggest storylines coming into the 2024 IMMAF European Championships was in the Junior Light Heavyweight division. All medalists from last year’s world championships were a part of this year’s continental tournament, which meant that a rematch of the final, between world champion Ivan Poremchuck and silver medalist Lukasz Makowski (pictured) could take place. When the duo […]
The upsets flowed freely throughout Belgrade on the third day of competition for Juniors and Seniors at the 2024 IMMAF European Championships as France and Poland earned several big victories to get near the top of the ranking, which was occupied once again by Team Ukraine. In the day’s first bout, Ireland’s Amy Scully, a Youth […]
The 2024 edition of the Junior and Senior European Championships was filled with drama on its second day, as Team Ukraine continued its domination with an incredible tally of 10 wins. But the story of the day included the big wins of Team Germany and Team France as they announced their arrival in style with […]
Olympic ties and a 40-year friendship united several titans of sports in Serbia as IMMAF (International Mixed Martial Arts Federation) president Kerrith Brown and IMMAF CEO Densign White met with Sebastian Coe, president of World Athletics, and World Athletics CEO Jon Ridgeon in Belgrade, as both the IMMAF and World Athletics prepared to oversee an intense day of competitions within their chosen […]
The 2024 edition of the IMMAF European Championships kicked off last Saturday with the Youth tournament, but this Tuesday it was the time for the Juniors and Seniors to take center stage in the biggest proving ground for amateur MMA. And Team Serbia seems to have taken advantage of being at home to drive themselves […]
The 2024 season for the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has kicked off in Serbia, as the biggest proving ground for amateur MMA landed in Belgrade for the 2024 European Championships, last March 30, for the first-ever Youth continental tournament, which successfully wrapped up last Sunday. Starting this Tuesday, April 2, until next Saturday, […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF), in conjunction with the Serbian MMA Federation, has inaugurated the first-ever Youth continental tournament, as part of the IMMAF European Champions, which kicked off this Saturday, March 30, in Belgrade, Serbia. And in the first day of competition, categories Youth B and Youth C shone on the biggest […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF), the governing body for amateur MMA globally, today announces BitDelta, a leading cryptocurrency exchange enabling diverse asset and commodity trading, as its official global trading platform partner. The groundbreaking partnership will see IMMAF and BitDelta work collaboratively to support the evolution of Mixed Martial Arts on a worldwide […]
Registration for the first-ever IMMAF African Championships taking place in Namibia has now opened for all African federations wishing to compete at the ultimate proving ground for amateur mixed martial artists, under the umbrella of the only WADA-signatory governing body for MMA. The 2024 edition of the IMMAF African Championships takes place in Windhoek, Namibia, […]
The International Testing Agency ITA will start a new webinar series on the topic of anti-doping on Tuesday 9 April 2024. It involves five dates on different topics. There is a separate registration link for each topic. It is important that participants register separately for each session using the links below, as they are stand-alone webinars. […]
The International Testing Agency (ITA), official anti-doping partner of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF), the is set to hold a February webinar dedicated to “A coach’s role in clean sport” with athletes, coaches, and other support personnel all invited to sign up. IMMAF and the ITA started an official partnership on January 1st, […]
By Frank Bonada Introducing IMMAF Pathways, a brand-new series that will delve into the transformative journeys of IMMAF’s most celebrated Amateur MMA champions. Our inaugural feature shines a spotlight on Magdalena Czaban, a dynamic atomweight hailing from Poland. Over the span of four years, she evolved into an iconic figure in the amateur MMA landscape, […]
AMATEUR MMA COMPETITORS WILL BENEFIT FROM ROBUST ANTI-DOPING PROGRAM PRESERVING CLEAN SPORT The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has officially partnered with the International Testing Agency (ITA). With the initial 4-year contract starting on January 1st, 2024, the ITA will aim to provide IMMAF with a high-quality anti-doping program, which includes independent results management […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has informed its members of the latest updates to safeguarding requirements to be completed by all coaches attending IMMAF competition with their national teams in 2024. 2024 marks the latest step in IMMAF youth safeguarding. As indicated in 2023, alongside the introduction of the Declaration of Honour, all […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) can today confirm that the 2024 IMMAF World Championships will officially take place in Tashkent, Uzbekistan this October, marking the first time the nation will host an IMMAF event. The news was announced today at a press conference in the capital city of Tashkent in conjunction with the […]
Youth Categories to Be Held Alongside Senior and Junior Tournaments for the Very First Time • Belgrade, Serbia – Ranko Žeravica Sports Hall • 29 March – 6 April 2024• Senior, Junior & Youth Tournaments The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is happy to announce the official scheduling of the 2024 IMMAF European Championships, […]
IMMAF’s policy for the annual revalidation of referees and judges is set to play a key condition in the selection of IMMAF-certified Referees and Judges to officiate in IMMAF events throughout 2024. The annual revalidation process aims to establish transparent pathways for the professional advancement of IMMAF-certified specialists, progressing from National level C to Continental […]
2024 is shaping up to be the biggest in International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) history with the calendar of Championships now confirmed. Commencing on March 29th, the much-anticipated 2024 IMMAF European Championships will kick off in Belgrade, Serbia. The event, spanning Senior, Junior, and Youth age brackets, promises an exhilarating showcase of top-tier talent. […]
By Frank Bonada Over the past decade, the IMMAF pathway has proven to be an invaluable asset for amateur MMA athletes, paving the way for their subsequent success in the professional scene. A decade after the inaugural IMMAF World Championships in 2014, the benefits of a well-nurtured amateur career are becoming increasingly evident. Held in […]
By Frank Bonada The year 2023 proved to be a landmark period for IMMAF alumni who transitioned into the professional ranks of mixed martial arts. Former IMMAF competitors celebrated victorious debuts, ascended to title contention and a select few even secured coveted championship accolades. The relationship between IMMAF and BRAVE CF continues to bear fruit, […]
By Frank Bonada The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has published the 2024 List of Prohibited Substances and Methods, effective from January 1, 2024. The full list can be seen here As a WADA Code signatory, the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) supports all changes made by WADA to uphold the sport’s integrity and keep […]
By Frank Bonada On the final day of the 2023 IMMAF Asian Championships, the next wave of Asia’s mixed martial artists faced off for the honour of claiming an IMMAF continental title. IMMAF record breaker Gadzhi Gadzhiev (Bahrain), a standout competitor across Youth, Junior, and Senior divisions, showcased his prowess once again. In the Senior […]
By Frank Bonada The penultimate day of the 2023 IMMAF Asian Championships saw fierce competition amongst Asia’s emerging MMA talents as each athlete looked to secure a coveted spot in the Finals. Kazakhstan once again stole the spotlight as Adilhan Ginayatov delivered the tournament’s standout moment so far, landing a spectacular head kick KO against […]
By Frank Bonada Day 3 of the 2023 IMMAF Asian Championships marked the beginning of the Senior and Junior bouts, as the best of Asia clashed in the Quarter-Finals. Host nation Bahrain, as well as Team Lebanon both topped the power rankings, with three wins apiece. Bahrain’s Mahammat Hissein put on one of the most […]
By Frank Bonada IMMAF World and Continental Champion Otabek Rajabov has officially inked a multi-fight deal with professional MMA promotion Cage Glory Championship, widely known as CGC. Fresh from his stellar performance at the 2023 IMMAF World Championships, Tajikistan’s Otabek Rajabov exits the amateur ranks with two World titles to his name, as well as […]
By Frank Bonada The second day of the 2023 IMMAF Asian Championships unfolded with Youth A athletes vying for a shot at continental gold. Kazakhstan took over Team UAE’s status as the tournament’s dominant force, securing all but two of the available gold medals. A clear standout was Kazakhstan’s new welterweight star, Chingiz Nurakhmetov, who […]
By Frank Bonada The opening day of the 2023 IMMAF Asian Championships commenced with the Youth B and C age brackets, setting the stage for an exciting showcase of amateur mixed martial arts in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The show stealers of the day were undeniably Team UAE, following their highly successful Youth World Championships […]
IMMAF President Kerrith Brown and Board Member Wissam Abi Nader were in attendance for the Saudi Games alongside the Executive Director of the Saudi Federation Abdullah Al-Hazaa. With mixed martial arts included in the Games as a demonstration sport, the IMMAF delegates witnessed the next generation of Saudi mixed martial artists compete on a national […]
By Frank Bonada 2015 IMMAF World gold medallist Frans Mlambo will compete to become PFL Europe Bantamweight Champion on December 8. Since his days with IMMAF, Mlambo has seamlessly transitioned from the amateur MMA circuit to become a prominent figure in the world of professional mixed martial arts. His combat sports journey has been marked […]
By Frank Bonada The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) today announced that the 2023 IMMAF World Championships, held in Tirana, Albania, the 2023 European City of Sport, broke records across the board in terms of digital viewership. Taking place from the 20th to the 25th of November, the 2023 IMMAF World Championships showcased the […]
By Frank Bonada A true trailblazer of Finnish and European MMA, Minna Grusander has announced her decision to retire from the sport of MMA. The impact of Grusander’s career as a mixed martial artist resonates far beyond her competitive years, having more than left her mark on Finland’s MMA landscape and standing as a key […]
By Frank Bonada Fresh off the historic 2023 IMMAF World Championships in Tirana, Albania, anticipation is soaring for the upcoming 2023 IMMAF Asian Championships. This landmark event, working in partnership with BRAVE Combat Federation, is poised to deliver an unforgettable spectacle, solidifying its place as the most significant amateur MMA event on the continent. In […]
On the final day of the 2023 IMMAF World Championships, the very best under the IMMAF banner faced off for a shot at the most prestigious of amateur MMA awards, an IMMAF World Senior Title. Despite fielding one of the smallest nations in the Championships, Team Brazil were mightily impressive in the Senior Finals. All […]
The Junior World finals saw a new set of MMA stars born on the penultimate day of the 2023 IMMAF World Championships. The day was stacked with exciting results as big underdogs and IMMAF newcomers captured gold medals on the highest stage of amateur MMA. In a rematch between last year’s finalists, Czech’s Tagir Machmudov, […]
Get your special 2-day 2023 IMMAF World Championships pass through our Black Friday deal. Buy now for $2.99 at IMMAF.tv In the 2023 IMMAF World Championships semi-finals, the very best in the world of amateur MMA clashed for a spot in the Senior and Junior Finals. After having his first two opponents fall through, […]
Day 3 of the 2023 IMMAF World Championships saw the stakes rise to a near-insurmountable level as athletes competed for a spot in the semi-finals. After being in the shadow of Ukraine and Kazakhstan for much of the tournament, Tajikistan finally took the lead with 16 wins across the day. Fans worldwide tuned in to […]
The second day of the 2023 IMMAF World Championships elevated the tournament to brand new heights, building on an already spectacular opening stanza. Returning champions continued to build on their past successes, while emerging talents left an indelible mark on the landscape of amateur MMA. Team Kazakhstan continued to assert its dominance, securing numerous decisive […]
The 2023 IMMAF World Championships commenced with a riveting start, showcasing amateur Mixed Martial Arts at its finest. Taking place at the Tirana Olympic Park in Albania, athletes representing nations all across the world competed for the chance to claim IMMAF gold. Team Kazakhstan and Team Ukraine asserted their dominance, firmly positioning themselves as frontrunners […]
By Frank Bonada At the 2023 International Mixed Martial Arts Federation World Championships, Finland’s breakout star, Sani Brannfors, will seek to etch her name into the annals of IMMAF greatness. Already a Youth and Junior World Champion, Brannors will attempt the remarkable feat of completing the trifecta, by capturing a Senior World Championships gold medal. […]
From IMMAF to the UFC, Brazil’s Amanda Ribas is one of the biggest stars to emerge from the Pan-American continent. The daughter of respected Brazilian Martial Arts coach, Marcelo Ribas, Amanda began training from a very young age. Initially joining a national Judo youth team, she would later find her true calling in Mixed Martial […]
6–8 March 2020 Gold Coast, Australia Buy Tickets and donate to the Australian Bushfire Appeal Watch world-class MMA athletes from around the world compete on the Gold Coast, as the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation brings its three-day, nation vs nation tournament to Australia from 6 to 8 March with the 2020 IMMAF Oceania Open […]
As a veteran medalist of the IMMAF platform, Giacomo Santoro (pictured, at the 2018 IMMAF European Open) is the latest European standout to win a domestic MMA title in the UK. The charismatic 24-year-old fighter kicked off his professional career on the evening of February 8 with a rear-naked-choke submission triumph that saw him claim […]
On Friday 7 February, the Ministry of Sport officially announced that MMA will be regulated in France under the auspices of the French Boxing Federation. The announcement was made by Sports Minister, Roxana Maracineanu, at a dedicated press conference. [Watch press announcement video via Boxe Mag – French Language] The Minister formalised the French Boxing […]
The Board of Directors of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) met on 7/8 February in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan, to formulate policy and approve action plans for 2020. The IMMAF Directors agreed to step up efforts to gain official recognition from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the Global Association of International Sports Federation (GAISF) […]
[London. 7 February 2020] The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) and the Comité Français de Mixed Martial Arts (CFMMA) welcome today’s official announcement by the French Ministry of Sport that MMA is to be legalised in France under the auspices of the French Boxing Federation. IMMAF President Kerrith Brown commented: “The official announcement is […]
Registration opens for athletes today The International MMA Federation announces the return of its Africa Open Championships to Johannesburg, South Africa, as registration opens today to MMA’s elite amateurs from around the globe. Those wishing to compete should contact their National Federation for information. Hosted by MMASA (Mixed Martial Arts South Africa), IMMAF’s 3-day, nation vs […]
In five weeks time Australia’s amateur MMA prospects will be taking on some of the world’s very best at the 2020 IMMAF Oceania Open Championships on the Gold Coast. This year the Oceania Open is set to enjoy an added influx of world champion talent with four reigning gold medalists of the IMMAF World Championships […]
Main picture: Hocine Mesboua (Algeria), IMMAF Director Wissam Abi Nader, Africa Union Chairman Avinash (Mauritius), IMMAF President Kerrith Brown and IMMAF Africa Director, Raymond Phillips at formation meeting in Bahrain, November 2019. The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is proud to announce the creation of its first Area Committee in Africa. The African Committee […]
The 2020 Swedish Amateur MMA National Championships concluded this past weekend with finals taking place on January 26 in the city of Gothenburg. Under the Swedish MMA Federation (SMMAF), the national amateur championships span three divisions separating experience levels: C-Class, B-Class and A-Class. A-Class competitors compete under the elite level IMMAF Unified Amateur MMA Rules […]
The inspiring power of community was recently on display within Afghanistan’s developing MMA scene. National regulatory body, The Afghan MMA Federation (AMMAF), which caters to grass roots development of MMA within the nation, welcomed over 250 young athletes to compete at an amateur championships in Kabul on January 9. “254 athletes participated from 11 provinces,” […]
London – 21 January – The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) welcomes the announcement earlier today that the French Boxing Federation has been given the responsibility of supervising the first phase of development of the sport of MMA in France. This decision, by the French Sport Ministry, is part of a historic legalisation of […]
IMMAF world lightweight gold medalist Michelle Montague recently took to Instagram, teasing a move to the women’s featherweight division of amateur MMA’s premier international platform, on the hunt for more competition. The 26-year-old announced herself under the IMMAF banner in 2019 while representing the New Zealand national team. Montague quickly established herself as one of […]
Main picture: IMMAF Board celebrates at the close of the inaugural IMMAF World Championships in Las Vegas in 2014 , with August Wallen centre facing. The lessons learned the hard way in Sweden helped to make IMMAF what it is today. Founder August Wallen talks to immaf.org about IMMAF’s origins. “IMMAF’s journey began during dark […]
[LONDON – 15 January 2020] A hearing, requested by the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) in the dispute regarding recognition of IMMAF as an official signatory to the World Anti-doping Agency (WADA), took place on Tuesday 14 January in Lausanne, Switzerland. IMMAF CEO Densign White was present together with representatives from IMMAF’s legal representatives […]
What if the original face of amateur MMA took on today’s most talked about amateur champion, who would have taken victory in this battle of IMMAF bantamweight prodigies? Jose Torres (USA) In his early 20’s Jose Torres earned gold at the inaugural IMMAF World Championships in Las Vegas 2014 and retained the title in 2015 […]
Athletes from Canada, Finland and India have joined the list of contenders set to challenge at the 2020 IMMAF Oceania Open in March, joining standouts from the UK, Bahrain and host nation Australia. The event will also welcome the first appearance of a French Polynesia national team and will feature five athletes making their international […]
IMMAF, the world governing body for amateur Mixed Martial Arts, is proud to welcome Venezuela as its latest international observational member. Venezuela becomes the 13th IMMAF member in the Pan-American Area, joining Argentina, Bahamas, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, El Salvador, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Trinidad and Tobago and the USA. IMMAF President Kerrith Brown said: “MMA is […]
FRENCH POLYNESIAN TEAM TO COMPETE IN IMMAF OCEANIA CHAMPIONSHIPS In France’s mainland the Sports Ministry has postponed its decision about the guardianship of MMA and its legalisation until February. Meanwhile, in France’s overseas territory of French Polynesia, a Public Service Delegation (DSP) was granted on December 27 for the Federation of Wrestling, mixed martial arts, […]
The German Mixed Martial Arts Federation (GEMMAF) has announced the completion of an agreement to further unite MMA in Germany, expanding unified goals for regulatory and development standards within the sport. In 2019 GEMMAF merged with counterpart, GAMMAF, to unify Germany’s standout governing bodies under the GEMMAF banner following the merger of international umbrella bodies, […]
IMMAF, the World Governing Body for the sport of amateur Mixed Martial Arts, has resumed legal action against the World Anti-Doping Agency. The case between IMMAF and WADA will be heard at the Tribunal d’Arrondissement in Lausanne on 14th January 2020. IMMAF is challenging the decision in the ordinary Swiss Courts because IMMAF’s application to […]
The 2020 IMMAF events calendar kicks off the new year with the Oceania Open Championships taking place from 6 – 8 March at Australia’s Gold Coast Recreation Centre on Palm Beach. In previous years the event has served up a collision for Australia and New Zealand’s national teams to battle for superiority of the continental […]
ATHLETE REGISTRATION OPENS TODAY! Athlete registration opens today for the 2019 IMMAF- WMMAA Pan American Open Championships of amateur MMA. Hosted by national federation, Empire Mixed Martial Arts Bahamas, the tournament is scheduled to take place from 15 to 18 May 2019 in Nassau, at the Kendal G. L Isaacs National Gymnasium at the Queen […]
Pictured: Mr. Babu Raj (General Manager GDHM), Mr. Shiraz (Associate Partner – Gulf Diwaniya Group), Gosha Malik (IMMAF Member Services Manager), Dr. Mohammed Rafeeq (Founder & Chairman Gulf Diwaniya Group), Isobel Carnwath (IMMAF Brand, Marketing & Communications Director), Mr. Amr Farouk (Group General Manager GDHM) Mr. Anil Kumar VK. (General Manager Loumage Hotel & Suites). […]
2018 IMMAF OCEANIA OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS AT THE ARNOLD SPORTS FESTIVAL AUSTRALIA 16 – 18 MARCH 2018 MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation Australia (IMMAFA) is to host the 2018 IMMAF Oceania Open Championships at the Arnold Sports Festival in Melbourne next year. The event will take place from 16 to 18 March at […]
Team registration is officially open ahead of the 2017 IMMAF World Championships of Amateur MMA set to take place in Manama, Bahrain, from 12 – 19 November at the Khalifa Sports City Arena. Registrtation timeline and key dates are listed below: August 24 – Team registration officially opens for the top 32 ranked nations to […]
· JOHANNESBURG, 29 AUGUST – 4 SEPTEMBER 2016 The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is proud to announce in association with Mixed Martial Arts South Africa (MMASA) the 2016 IMMAF Africa Open Championships, which will take place from 29 August to 4 September 2016 in Johannesburg. Hosted and commissioned by IMMAF’s national counterpart, Mixed Martial […]
May 26th marks the deadline day for registration to the 2016 IMMAF World Championships of Amateur MMA. The window for athlete registration will finally close at midnight AoE time (UTC – 12). As the final day of registration counts down, a current total of 214 amateur competitors are registered via MyNextMatch.com, spanning 31 nations and 14 weight divisions. The […]
Picture: European Open Silver medallist Warren Mason secures victory for Team UK via arm-bar against Frenchman Humberto Correia For a third successive year the UK MMA Federation (UKMMAF) National Team will compete at the IMMAF World Championships of Amatuer MMA, taking place from Tuesday, July 5 – Sunday, July 10 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, in conjunction […]
Picture: 2015 IMMAF European Open Bronze medallist Hussein Maki faces off against eventual tournament champion Jake Bond. Selection has been completed for Bahrain’s National MMA team ahead of the 2016 IMMAF World Championships of Amateur MMA, taking place from Tuesday, July 5 – Sunday, July 10 in Las Vegas, USA. Following multiple try-outs and regional […]
Joe Minehan, President of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation of Australia (IMMAFA) has revealed the official team lineup of eight athletes who will represent the nation at this year’s IMMAF World Championships of Amateur MMA from Tuesday, July 5 – Sunday, July 10 in Las Vegas, USA. 2016 will mark Australia’s first venture to the […]
The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is proud to partner with local promotion, Tuff-N-Uff, in hosting its 2016 IMMAF World Championships of Amateur MMA, which takes place from Tuesday, July 5 – Sunday, July 10 in Las Vegas, USA. The event sees representatives from IMMAF’s 53-member nations face off as part of the 5th […]
Representatives from IMMAF’s 53-member countries are set to face off in a week of elite amateur MMA action, in which national team faces off against national team The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation today announced the 2016 installment of the IMMAF World Championships of Amateur MMA will return to Las Vegas as part of the […]
The national team tryouts in France for the 2016 IMMAF World Championships took a surprising turn when the French Anti-doping Agency arrived unannounced to test the athletes. Hosted by the Commission Française de Mixed Martial Arts (CFMMA), the team trials took place last weekend on Sunday 31 January at Paris Fight Team headquarters at 16 rue capron. […]
For the IMMAF European Open Championships, Finland’s national amateur MMA team will make their way to the UK as the largest competing body with a squad of 18 fighters, including the most diverse Women’s lineup spanning five athletes across four weight divisions. With Finland currently ranked 7th as a nation in the IMMAF World Amateur Rankings, Jukka […]
Picture: Carl McNally lifting the Ulster flag with victory on the opening day at the 2015 IMMAF World Championships of Amateur MMA Competing athletes at next week’s IMMAF European Open Championships can expect to meet a “serious force” in the form of Northern Ireland’s national amateur team, according to Danny Corr, Director of the Ulster […]
IMMAF is pleased to welcome SAFEJAWZ to the 2015 IMMAF European Championships of Amateur MMA, where the Mouthguard provider will be hosting a stall and Mouthguard fitting services on Thursday 19 and Sunday 22 November at the Walsall Sports Centre. Forgotten or lost your Mouthguard? Having a Mouthguard crisis? Don’t fear…SAFEJAWZ will be at hand with stock […]
Pictured: Team Iceland’s head coach Jon Vidar (left) Haraldur Nelson (centre left) Gunnar Nelson (centre right) John Kavanagh (right). From November 19 to 22 amateur mixed martial artists from Iceland will take part in an IMMAF event for the very first time, as the national team travels to compete in the 2015 IMMAF European Open Championships at the Walsall Sports […]
The national amateur team of Lebanon will soon travel to the UK for the IMMAF European Open Championships of Amateur MMA, which takes place in less than 9 days time, from November 19 to 22 at the University of Wolverhampton’s Walsall Campus Sports Centre. Lebanon made history with IMMAF in 2014 as the first Arab […]
Picture: Anja Saxmark (left) receives her silver medal at the 2015 IMMAF World Championships of Amateur MMA from SMMAF and IMMAF founder August Wallen As the founding nation of IMMAF, Sweden and the Swedish Mixed Martial Arts Federation (SMMAF) boasts some of the best and most effective government relations seen anywhere in the world for the sport […]
At the IMMAF European Open Championships this month amateur fighters from Bahrain will compete under IMMAF for the first time since the ground breaking launch of KHK MMA, a Bahrain based stable of international and Bahraini fighters financially backed by team founder Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, First Deputy president of the Supreme Council for […]
Pictured: Norway’s Eivind D. S. Kjonsvik (3rd right) medals with silver in the Men’s Light Heavyweight division at the 2014 IMMAF World Championships Following Norway’s breakthrough success at the first ever IMMAF World Championships of Amateur MMA in 2014, where the national team achieved four podium positions, the momentum was halted as Norway were unable to […]
In less than two weeks Team Canada’s elite lineup of amateur MMA contenders will travel to the UK for the first time as a unit to compete in the first IMMAF European Open Championships of Amateur MMA. At the inaugural IMMAF World Championships in Las Vegas, 2014, Canada came away with a single medal as Leroy Johnson […]
22 NOVEMBER 2015, WALSALL SPORTS CENTRE – UNITED KINGDOM INTERNATIONAL MIXED MARTIAL ARTS (MMA) TOURNAMENT The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is pleased to welcome Jane Percy, Duchess of Northumberland, to the finals of the 2015 IMMAF European Championships of Amateur MMA at the Walsall Sports Centre, in the British Midlands. The Duchess will […]
for the 2015 European Open Championships of Amateur MMA (London. 21 October 2015) The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is proud to announce Greenhill as its official equipment supplier for the 2015 IMMAF European Open Championships of Amateur MMA. Founded in 1964 as family business driven by a love and respect for martial arts, […]
Following the completion of open tryouts at Dublin’s famed SBG Ireland headquarters, the Irish Amateur Pankration Association (IAPA) have revealed the list of fighters who will represent the nation at this year’s inaugural IMMAF Amateur MMA European Open Championships. The event takes place 19-22 November in Birmingham, England. Subject to IMMAF clearance, IAPA have put forward a lineup […]
With tryouts having taken place on October 11, Portugal’s Comissão Atlética Portuguesa de Mixed Martial Arts (CAPMMA) has completed its selection process for athletes that will represent its nation at the IMMAF Amateur European Open Championships. The event takes place 19-22 November in Birmingham, England. The deadline for team registration expires today, October 16. Subject to confirmed registration and clearance by […]
(London. 11th October 2015) The United Kingdom Mixed Martial Arts Federation (UKMMAF) has announced the UK Amateur MMA team for the 2015 IMMAF European Championships of Amateur MMA, following try-outs which have taken place over the past few months. The 2015 IMMAF European Open Championships will take place in Birmingham (UK) from 19–22 November 2015 […]
As the IMMAF European Open Championships approaches, from November 19-22, so does the October 16 deadline for competitor entries. Over the past weekend several IMMAF member nations held their national tryouts in order to determine their squad of athletes who will compete across the various weight classes at the IMMAF European Open in Birmingham, England. IMMAF members who completed national […]
(London. 19th September 2015) IMMAF Lightweight Gold Medallist, Josh Ellis, has been forced to withdraw from representing Team UK in the 2015 IMMAF European Open Championships, after breaking his hand. The Swansea Amateur mixed martial arts champion commented: “I’m gutted I can’t represent Team UK at the IMMAF European Championships this November due to a […]
The German Mixed Martial Arts Federation (GEMMAF) is organizing a selective MMA training camp for its second year running, from 2 to 4 October. The German Amateur MMA team competition schedule this year has so far taken in the national Aschaffenburg MMA-Amateur-Championships in March and the 2015 IMMAF World Championships in Las Vegas in July. November will […]
The Comissão Atlética Portuguesa de Mixed Martial Arts (CAPMMA) will begin the selection process for athletes to represent Portugal at the IMMAF European Championships of Amateur MMA in November, taking place in Birmingham, England. The first phase of the National Tryouts will take place on October 11th, starting at 2pm, and will be part of a […]
2015 IMMAF EUROPEAN OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS OF AMATEUR MMA BIRMINGHAM, UNITED KINGDOM 19TH-22ND NOVEMBER 2015 Tickets are now on sale for the 2015 IMMAF European Open Championships of Amateur MMA, taking place November 19 -22 in Birmingham, United Kingdom, with a limited number available to friends, family and the public. BUY TICKETS HERE: http://www.immaf.org/buy-immaf-tickets/ The venue […]
See listed below the IMMAF competitors for the 2015 World Championships at UFC® International Fight Week, pending final review. Competitors are listed as entered by their national federations, both by national team and by weight class. A handful more athletes are yet to be finalised (due to matters such as visas and injury). Please note […]
