Manama, August 31 /BNA/ – The inaugural edition of the Youth Mixed Martial Arts Championship, qualifying for the 3rd Asian Games, concluded successfully in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The event was held under the generous patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, Chairman of the General Sports Authority, and Chairman of the Bahrain Olympic Committee. The championship was organized by the Bahrain Mixed Martial Arts Federation (BMMAF) under the supervision of the Asian Mixed Martial Arts Union (AMMA) on August 28 and 29 at Khalifa Sports City Hall, with participation from 19 teams across Asia.

This first edition of the championship was an exceptional event, held for the first time at the youth level, featuring a highly competitive and enthusiastic atmosphere that resonated widely at both continental and international levels.

The event reflected Bahrain’s capability to host major sporting events, demonstrated by the high standards of organization, infrastructure, and logistical support, which drew praise from participating delegations who confirmed that the readiness and organization exceeded continental standards and matched global championships.

The national mixed martial arts team made a remarkable presence by securing third place in two different weight categories amid strong competition. Player Mohammed Adel won the bronze medal in the 50 KG category for under-16, while player Abdullah Jamal secured third place and bronze in the 65 KG category for under-18. This achievement highlights Bahrain’s promising talents capable of raising the nation’s flag high in future events and reflects the Kingdom’s strong support and sponsorship for sports and athletes, especially combat sports and mixed martial arts, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

This result reflects the efforts of the Bahrain Mixed Martial Arts Federation in implementing the vision set by His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa for this sport, as well as the federation’s commitment to the policies established by the Bahrain Combat Sports Council, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Deputy Chairman of the General Sports Authority, to continue developing and advancing all combat sports, including mixed martial arts, to achieve further achievements for Bahrain’s sports record.

Meanwhile, Mr. Hassan Ahmed, Head of the Logistics Committee of the Organizing Committee for Asia’s First Youth Mixed Martial Arts Championship, expressed his great happiness with the success achieved by the organizing committee. He considered this new success added to Bahrain’s achievements in hosting and organizing major sporting events, enhancing its prestigious position on the global sports map. He said: “Bahraini sports in general, and mixed martial arts in particular, have strengthened their position at the heart of the Asian sports scene through organizing this first-of-its-kind continental championship. We received praise from all federations, players, and coaches for the high level Bahrain demonstrated in hosting this exceptional championship.”

He added: “The championship’s success would not have been possible without the great support received by the organizing committee from His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, as well as the support and contributions of the General Sports Authority, Bahrain Olympic Committee, Bahrain Combat Sports Council, Brave Bahrain Organization, and all contributors who participated in highlighting and ensuring the success of this event on the Kingdom’s soil.”

He said: “What distinguished the organizational work was the team led by Mr. Mohammed Ali Qambar, President of the Bahrain Mixed Martial Arts Federation, who worked with one spirit. Thanks go to him, all working committees, national staff, and volunteers who set a wonderful example of dedication and sincerity.”