The UAE Mixed Martial Arts National Team added to its haul at the seventh IMMAF Youth World Championships when Ghala Al Hammadi took silver in the Youth A Women’s 52.2kg category according to the Emirates News Agency. This result lifted the hosts’ overall medal count to six gold six silver and seven bronze for a total of 19 as the Youth A phase opened on day five at Mubadala Arena. The tournament has attracted more than 1 100 athletes from 55 countries with bouts staged across several youth age divisions.
Yousef Abdullah Al Batran a board member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation said “Hosting a championship of this size strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a major international sporting destination.” He pointed to the accompanying cultural tours that allow participants to explore the emirate’s history and attractions while competing. The federation official noted the event’s role in showcasing Abu Dhabi on the global sporting stage.
Ghala Al Hammadi reflected on her preparation telling WAM “We prepared well for this championship and trained throughout the summer.” She added “It was not always easy to spend our summer break training especially when we were tired but we knew we had to stay committed.” The silver came after the team had collected 18 medals by the close of the Youth B division for athletes aged 14 and 15.
IMMAF data shows the Youth A category for 16-to-17-year-olds intensifies physical and technical requirements with athletes needing to manage full bouts adapt to opponents and handle pressure. Historical records from prior Abu Dhabi stagings indicate the UAE has steadily improved its youth output including a 12-medal record in the 2023 edition. The current championships represent the seventh edition of the IMMAF Youth World Championships with strong performances registered by nations such as Ukraine and Tajikistan in earlier days.
Youth A competition is scheduled to run through Saturday before the full seven-day event concludes on August 23. Organisers have coordinated transport accommodation and side activities for all delegations to minimise logistical pressures on the young competitors. Further finals in remaining weight classes are expected to determine the final medal standings at Mubadala Arena.
