November 5, 2024 — The Saudi Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) National Team is representing the Kingdom in the 2024 International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) World Championships, held in Uzbekistan from November 3 to November 11. This prestigious global tournament gathers elite fighters from around the world, focusing on the 18+ category. This year, the Saudi team is determined to make a strong impact on the world stage as they showcase the nation’s growing talent in MMA.
The Saudi roster features some of the nation’s top MMA fighters, each selected for their dedication, skill, and readiness to compete at an international level. The team includes Fighter Fahd Al-Qahtani, Fighter Malik Basahel, Fighter Mohammed Al-Qahtani, and Fighter Faisal Al-Shami, who are all prepared to take on the competition. They are led by Team Administrator Abdullah Al-Qassim, instrumental in coordinating the team’s preparation and ensuring that all logistical needs are met as they compete in Uzbekistan.
In the lead-up to the championship, the Saudi MMA team held an intensive training camp in Jeddah. This camp was meticulously designed to prepare athletes for the demanding tournament conditions, emphasizing both physical conditioning and technical refinement. Under the guidance of expert coaches, fighters engaged in a range of activities, including enhanced fitness regimens to build endurance, strength, and flexibility, ensuring they are physically primed for the challenges ahead.
Sparring sessions and tactical training were key components of the camp, allowing fighters to sharpen their skills in a controlled setting while receiving tactical guidance specific to ring competition. Additionally, the team underwent comprehensive education on IMMAF regulations, focusing on judges' and referees' guidelines to ensure they are well-prepared and fully aware of official tournament standards.
This participation in the IMMAF World Championships highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering talent in mixed martial arts and supporting athletes who aspire to achieve international success. With increasing investments in sports infrastructure and athlete development, the Kingdom aims to position itself as a regional leader in the MMA arena. As the championships unfold, the Saudi MMA team hopes to make a significant mark, demonstrating the depth of talent and competitive spirit that defines the Kingdom's athletes.