UAE athletes kick off IMMAF Youth World Championships with 4 medals

ABU DHABI: The fourth IMMAF Youth World Championships got off to a strong start when the UAE team claimed four medals at the Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City.

The four-day event, organized by the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation and hosted by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, will continue until Aug. 5, with a record 636 athletes from 45 countries participating.

The opening day showcased contests in the Youth C (12 to 13 years old) division featuring young MMA athletes from around the world.

The UAE national team had a successful first day, securing four medals.

Aisha Alhammadi gave Team UAE an ideal start by capturing silver in the women/youth C/57 kg division. She was soon joined on the podium by Saif Alblooshi, who scooped gold in the men/youth C/40 kg category.

Rakan Alyammahi (men/youth C/34 kg) won silver, and Sara Alzarooni (women/youth C/40 kg) secured bronze, making the hosts look strong.

Mohammed bin Dalmouj Al-Dhaheri, board member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation and chairman of the federation’s MMA committee, said: “Hosting the IMMAF Youth World Championships for the second consecutive year has firmly contributed to solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as the global MMA capital.

“The UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation takes pride in organizing this prestigious tournament at par with international standards.

“By bringing together the finest young talents from across the globe, we showcase our dedication to hosting world-class events and provide a platform for these remarkable athletes to compete.”

Al-Dhaheri praised the performances of the young Emirati athletes.

“As we witness these exceptional athletes display their incredible skills