‘MMA engaging more youngsters than cricket’

LAHORE: Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is rapidly overtaking cricket as the most popular sport among Pakistan’s new generation, according to Omar Ahmed, President of the Pakistan MMA Federation.

He believes MMA’s rise reflects the modern world—fast-paced, raw, and authentic, resonating deeply with young Pakistanis who crave high-intensity competition.

“MMA is a pure test of skill, heart, and strategy, which is why it captivates today’s generation,” Ahmed stated in conversation with The News. The sport’s global expansion is undeniable, particularly in regions like the Middle East, where heavy investments have turned MMA into a nation-branding and economic growth tool.

Pakistan has embraced this momentum, emerging as a rising force in international MMA. Pakistani fighters have earned recognition on the world stage, with notable performances at the IMMAF World Championships, where they secured medals and proved their potential. Among them, Rizwan Ali has drawn international attention with his knockout victories in Brave Combat Federation, positioning himself for a historic UFC debut.

Ahmed emphasised that Pakistan has always been a nation of fighters, known for its resilience and fearless spirit. He believes MMA’s meteoric rise among Gen Z is a testament to the sport’s deep-rooted connection with Pakistani culture.

Beyond competition, the Pakistan MMA Federation is actively reshaping public perception of combat sports. Ahmed stressed that MMA is not about violence but rather discipline, self-mastery, and control.

Countries like Bahrain and the UAE have already integrated martial arts into school curriculums, recognizing its role in building character, mental resilience, and life skills. Inspired by this model, Pakistan is fostering similar structured programs to empower young athletes with emotional stability and a strong sense of purpose.

Pakistan’s growing presence in global MMA was further solidified through Pakistan Combat Week. The tournament attracted over 300 athletes, coaches, and officials from across Asia, with Pakistan winning 12 medals.

The event was broadcast in over 100 countries, reaching millions and reinforcing Pakistan’s status as a key player in international MMA.

Unlike many struggling sports bodies in Pakistan, the Pakistan MMA Federation operates independently of government funding. Ahmed noted that while other organizations waited for financial support, the federation focused on competence and commitment, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem.

One of its groundbreaking initiatives is the Real World Fight League (RWFL)—a grassroots platform designed to discover and develop raw talent. This system, coupled with a structured talent pipeline, ensures that fighters progress seamlessly from local competitions to the international stage.

Looking ahead to 2025, the federation has set bold objectives which includes securing Rizwan Ali’s UFC contract, winning more medals at the IMMAF World Championships and launching Pakistan’s first major professional MMA league.

“This is just the beginning,” he affirmed. “Pakistan’s MMA revolution is here to stay.”