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 […]
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, […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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, […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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) […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 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 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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, […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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), […]
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; […]
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, […]
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 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 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 […]
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 […]
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 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, […]
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 […]
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, […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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), 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, […]
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 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 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 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 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
