The Emirates News Agency reported that Alyammahi defeated Nurshed Kovatov of Tajikistan in the final to win gold in the 34kg division at the IMMAF Youth World Championships. This result contributed to the host nation’s overall success at the week-long tournament. The UAE Mixed Martial Arts Federation prepared the national team for the competition that drew young athletes from dozens of countries.
According to the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation roundup, the event took place at Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi with the opening ceremony held prior to the first bouts. A total of 61 medals were awarded on the initial day of competition. The championships targeted youth athletes in age groups that included the 12-to-13-year-old category in which Alyammahi competed.
IMMAF figures show that Sara Alzarooni captured gold in the 40kg women’s division after winning all three of her fights. Saoud Alblooshi earned bronze in the 31kg men’s division while Noof Almutwa took bronze in the women’s 40kg category. These podium results formed part of the UAE total that reached 17 medals.
The federation’s assessment found Ukraine collecting 16 medals to top the early standings. The UAE stood close behind with its accumulated haul across the competition. Several nations secured their first medals in the history of the youth worlds.
Previous reports from The National indicated that the 2023 edition of the championships also occurred in Abu Dhabi. In that tournament Rakan Alyammahi earned silver in the 34kg division. Saif Al Blooshi claimed a gold medal for the UAE on the opening day in 2023.
The IMMAF stated that the opening ceremony included addresses by H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa bin Shakhbut Al Nahyan and IMMAF President Kerrith Brown. The week-long program featured bouts from morning until evening across multiple days in August 2024. Further competitions determined final placements in all weight classes.
