The UAE National Team continues to dominate the ongoing IMMAF Youth World Championships, held at the prestigious Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi. On the third day of the competition, the team extended its winning streak, securing three more medals, contributing to a remarkable tally that solidifies their position as a powerhouse in mixed martial arts.
Youth B Division Triumphs
Thursday was dedicated to the Youth B (14-15 years) division, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The UAE athletes showcased their exceptional skills and determination, bringing home three medals. Saif Alblooshi emerged as a standout performer, clinching the silver medal in the fiercely contested 40 kg category. His performance was a testament to his dedication and the rigorous training regimen that has been the hallmark of the UAE’s approach to developing young talents.
In addition to Saif’s success, Ali Mohamed Alnajar also made his mark in the 40 kg category, securing a bronze medal. His journey through the competition displayed resilience and strategic prowess, attributes the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation is carefully cultivating. Meanwhile, Aisha Alhammadi added to the team’s success by winning a bronze medal in the 62 kg category, demonstrating the depth of talent within the UAE’s youth ranks.
A Growing Medal Tally
The UAE National Team’s current medal tally stands at nine impressive medals, including three golds, one silver, and five bronzes. This achievement reflects not just individual talent but also the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation’s commitment to nurturing young athletes and providing them with the opportunities to excel on the global stage.
Under the Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
The IMMAF Youth World Championships are being held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council. His Highness’s support underscores the UAE’s commitment to promoting sports and creating a nurturing environment for young athletes to thrive. The championships, which will continue until August 10, have attracted participants from around the world, all vying for glory in this prestigious event.
High-Profile Attendance and Support
Thursday’s competitions were graced by the presence of several high-profile dignitaries, including H.E. Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, and Kerrith Brown, President of IMMAF. Their presence, along with other key figures such as H.E. Mohammed bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation and Chairman of the Federation’s Mixed Martial Arts Committee, and H.E. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, highlights the significance of this event in the global martial arts calendar.
Federation’s Vision: Shaping the Future of Mixed Martial Arts
Mohammed Al Hosani, a member of the Mixed Martial Arts Committee at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, praised the athletes for their impressive performances, emphasizing the federation’s strategic focus on developing young talent. “We did everything in our power to organize this championship according to the highest international standards and to provide the athletes with the opportunity to showcase their abilities and skills,” he said. Al Hosani’s remarks reflect the federation’s long-term vision of building a strong national team to raise the UAE flag at regional and international events.
The federation’s efforts to promote mixed martial arts are not limited to the youth. There is a comprehensive plan to expand the sport’s reach locally and globally, positioning Abu Dhabi as the world capital of martial arts and the first destination for athletes aspiring to achieve excellence. This strategic focus is evident in the federation’s initiatives to provide athletes with state-of-the-art facilities, world-class coaching, and ample opportunities to compete at the highest levels.
Global Recognition and Praise for the Championships
The IMMAF Youth World Championships have received widespread praise from participants and observers alike. Densign White, CEO of IMMAF, expressed his admiration for the event’s organization, stating, “The feedback I’ve received personally from coaches and athletes about the IMMAF Youth World Championships has been nothing but praise.” He highlighted Abu Dhabi’s reputation for hosting events of this caliber and noted that the championships have become increasingly popular, with a growing number of participants each year.
White’s comments are echoed by coaches and athletes who have found the championships to be an ideal platform for young talents to showcase their skills. Bartosz Mamrod, the Polish MMA national team coach, remarked on his team’s significant progress, attributing it to the high level of competition and the opportunity to compete against the best in the world. “This event demands constant adaptation to evolving fighting strategies, and our team has risen to the challenge,” he said.
Personal Stories of Success
Amidst the broader narrative of national success, the championships also bring to light the personal stories of individual athletes. Julia Lewandowska of Poland, who won gold in the Women/Youth B/67 kg category, shared her experience: “The competition was tough and intense. I faced strong competitors and put in a lot of effort, but skill was the deciding factor in determining the fight’s outcome.” Her words capture what makes these championships so special – the combination of talent, determination, and the opportunity to compete on a global stage.
Recognition for UAE’s Leadership in Martial Arts
On the sidelines of the championship, H.E. Mohammed bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri and Mohammed Al Hosani received an award presented by Kerrith Brown. The award was a recognition of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation’s unwavering support for the sport over the past few years. “I would like to congratulate His Excellency Mohammed bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri and Mohammed Al Hosani on this award, which comes as recognition and appreciation from us for the support provided by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation,” said Brown. This accolade is a testament to the UAE’s leadership in the martial arts community and its role in shaping the future of the sport.
Conclusion
As the IMMAF Youth World Championships continue, the UAE National Team is poised to achieve even greater success. With the unwavering support of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, the dedication of the athletes, and the strategic vision for the future, the UAE is well on its way to becoming a global leader in mixed martial arts. The championships are not just a platform for competition but a celebration of the spirit of sportsmanship, determination, and the pursuit of excellence.
