Emirati fighters steal the show at 4th Youth MMA Championships in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi: March 6 The young mixed martial arts talent from the UAE put on a strong showing at the fourth edition of the Youth MMA Championships at the Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City on Saturday, with Saeed Al-Hosani overcoming Mansoor Alsayed in the 70.3kg main event Finish.

As many as 40 Emirati youths took part in the Octagon Championship, which was considered the perfect lead-up to the Youth MMA World Championships in August. The tournament features 30 bouts in various weight classes.

Abdel Moneim Al-Hashemi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, said the Youth MMA Championships cemented Abu Dhabi’s position as one of the top destinations for combat sports.

“The high participation in Youth MMA Championship Four is a testament to the existence of a talent pool capable of competing for the UAE national team and hoisting the country’s flag on the international podium,” he said.

Mohammed Al-Hosani, member of the federation’s Mixed Martial Arts Committee, said: “This is our fourth MMA event, game after game, and we’ve noticed a lot of improvement in our young fighters as they become more familiar with what they need. The rules are laid, and it’s all about preparing for the Youth MMA World Championships.

“We have more than 40 Emirati and another 20 Arabs. So this match can be considered as an Arab or regional championship.

“Ensuring that our players have access to top athletes from around the world to give them the experience they need ahead of their participation in the World Championships is critical.”

UAE champion Ali Al-Najjar, competing in the Junior C 40kg category, was crowned after a win over rival Rakan Al-Yammahi.

He said: “Every athlete dreams of winning the first place, especially early in their career. Getting the first place will be a great motivation for me to continue exercising and gain more experience. I will do my best to maintain this achievement .”

Sultan Al-Ghusain defeated Salim Al-Shamsi in the decisive match to win the Junior A 65.8kg category.

“I see today’s achievement as a springboard to even greater success as I prepare for the upcoming World Championships in Abu Dhabi,” he said.