LAHORE (AMK): Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is no longer just a sport – its’s a global phenomenon. From its underground roots to mainstream dominance, MMA has captivated audiences worldwide with its raw intensity, strategic brilliance, and unfiltered authenticity. Pakistan, once an underdog in combat sports, is now emerging as a formidable force on the global MMA stage. At the heart of this transformation is Omar Ahmed, President of the Pakistan MMA Federation, whose leadership has positioned the nation as a rising powerhouse.
According to Omar Ahmed, MMA resonates deeply with modern audiences, especially Generation Z. “This sport is a reflection of today’s world—fast-paced, unpredictable, and real. When two fighters step into the cage, it transcends borders, language, and backgrounds. It’s a pure test of skill, resilience, and strategy.”
MMA’s meteoric rise, he says, is driven by a blend of entertainment, business, and global influence. Under Dana White’s leadership, the UFC evolved from an underground spectacle into a multi-billion-dollar empire. Today, MMA’s influence extends beyond sports into politics and business, with major players like Meta and high-profile investors shaping its future.
The Middle East, too, has recognized MMA’s potential, with Bahrain launching Brave Combat Federation, Abu Dhabi hosting Fight Island, and Saudi Arabia making significant investments in the Professional Fighters League. The sport is no longer American-dominated; it has become a truly global enterprise.
Pakistan’s fighting spirit has always been undeniable, but its entry into elite MMA competition marks a new chapter in the nation’s sporting history. Ahmed notes a seismic shift in youth participation, with MMA surpassing cricket in popularity among Gen Z. “Our young generation is drawn to MMA like never before. The sport is raw, real, and offers a clear path from grassroots to the world stage.”
Pakistani athletes have already made waves in international competitions, securing medals in IMMAF World Championships held in Abu Dhabi, Serbia, and Bahrain. The country boasts Asian champions and top-tier professional fighters, with stars like Rizwan Ali dominating Brave Combat Federation and knocking on the doors of the UFC.
One of the defining moments of Pakistan’s MMA journey came at Brave CF 92 in Bahrain, where Pakistani fighters secured five consecutive wins against India in front of 8,000 spectators. Such performances have not only cemented Pakistan’s reputation but have also set the stage for its entry into the sport’s biggest leagues.
Despite the common misconception that MMA promotes violence, Ahmed emphasizes its deeper values: discipline, control, and respect. “MMA is not about fighting others—it’s about mastering oneself. It builds mental resilience, emotional intelligence, and self-discipline.
“These initiatives shape young minds, fostering confidence and responsibility. We’re not just training fighters; we’re developing individuals who can handle pressure, set goals, and lead disciplined lives. “MMA is more than physical fitness—it’s a tool for self-discovery and transformation,” he added. MMA’s global appeal is undeniable. With over 600 million fans worldwide, it is the second-most-watched pay-per-view sport after football. “This sport is a meritocracy. If you have the talent and the heart, you can rise. Your background, connections, or financial status don’t matter in the cage.”
Moreover, MMA’s economic impact extends beyond just athletes. A thriving MMA ecosystem benefits gym owners, coaches, promoters, and sponsors. “It’s not just about a few elite fighters. MMA creates jobs, builds communities, and fosters an entire industry.”
One of Pakistan’s defining achievements in MMA came with the successful hosting of the Asian MMA Championships 2024, part of Pakistan Combat Week. Ahmed describes it as “the largest sporting event in Pakistan since the 1996 Cricket World Cup and the 2004 South Asian Games.” The event attracted over 300 athletes, coaches, and officials from across Asia. Pakistan secured 12 medals—two gold, four silver, and six bronze—finishing third overall.
On the professional front, Rizwan Ali’s series of knockouts has placed him in contention for Knockout of the Year. His performance at Brave CF 92, where Pakistan achieved a clean sweep against India, further elevated the country’s standing in global MMA. “We are now on the verge of making history with Rizwan’s entry into the UFC. Once that happens, Pakistan’s MMA landscape will be changed forever.”
“Most sports federations depend on government support. We didn’t have that luxury—and we didn’t need it,” Ahmed asserts. “Instead of waiting for handouts, we focused on execution. Pakistan Combat Week was something many thought impossible without government backing, yet we pulled it off.”
The success of these efforts was recognized at the highest levels, with Ahmed and his team receiving an invitation from the Prime Minister, who acknowledged their ability to host international events at a world-class standard. “This proves that when competence meets passion, the impossible becomes reality.”
The Pakistan MMA Federation stands apart from other sports bodies due to its structured athlete development system. At the grassroots level, the Real World Fight League (RWFL) provides an accessible entry point—akin to tape-ball cricket in MMA. From there, top talent advances to IMMAF amateur competitions, representing Pakistan globally. The best then transition into professional circuits like Brave Combat Federation, with the ultimate goal of reaching the UFC. “We have built a clear pipeline for talent. Other federations struggle to get players on the field, while we have athletes winning medals, securing international contracts, and building sustainable careers.”
Looking ahead, the Pakistan MMA Federation has set ambitious goals for 2025. The top priority is securing Rizwan Ali’s UFC contract, making him Pakistan’s first representative in the world’s premier MMA organization. Additionally, the federation aims to increase Pakistan’s medal tally at the IMMAF World Championships and expand grassroots programs to bring MMA to more schools and communities. “Our journey is just beginning. Pakistan is no longer on the sidelines of global MMA – we are making our mark, and we will continue to rise.”
