Over 1,000 athletes to compete in Youth MMA

The Youth Mixed Martial Arts World Championships return for a record-breaking sixth edition, with over 1,000 young athletes from 60 countries set to compete in Al Ain from July 21 to 27. It’s the first time the event will be held in Al Ain — and the fourth consecutive year that the UAE plays host.

- BY A.K.S. SATISH

Organised by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation in cooperation with the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF), the week-long event marks the championship’s most ambitious edition yet. The massive rise in participation — up from just 200 athletes in 2022 reflects the sport’s growing popula