There is an 'MMA revolution' that takes place in Pakistan -and the best MMA hunters in the country eagerly await their chance to shine at the largest stage of all.
If you think of the best combat sports countries in Asia: Japan, South Korea, China, Thailand, Bahrain and the VAE, perhaps the first to come to me in the spring – but probably not Pakistan.
Well, fans must expect that they will see many more fighters from this region in the coming years, with the nation experiencing a monumental explosion in MMA interest and investments.
Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
The rise of mixed martial arts in Pakistan has grabbed a generation
According to Omar Ahmed, president of the Pakistan MMA Federation, mixed martial arts quickly catches up cricket as the most popular sport among the youth in the country.
“MMA is a pure test of skill, heart and strategy, so it fascinates the current generation,” Ahmed explained in a series of interviews with media.
“This sport is a reflection of today's world, ie quickly, unpredictable and real … When two hunters get into the cage, it transcends boundaries, language and backgrounds. It is a pure test of skill, resilience and strategy.
“Our young generation is attracted to MMA like never before,” Ahmed continued: “The sport is raw, real and offers a clear path from base to world stage.”
Pakistani athletes have already made waves at the IMMAF world championships, but the crown performance of the nation came with their hosting from the Asian MMA championships in 2024.
That event attracted hundreds of athletes and was broadcast in more than 100 countries worldwide, which Ahmed described as “The largest sporting event in Pakistan since the Cricket World Cup 1996 and the South Asian Games of 2004.”
In Pakistan, just like in different countries around the world, MMA had enormous effort to break into the regular sports market because of the inherently violent nature.
Ahmed believes that because of the global expansion of the UFC, which barriers are now demolished when the nation comes to terms with the countless benefits that MMA offers the next generation.
“These initiatives are young spirits, promoting trust and responsibility. We not only train hunters; we develop individuals who can process pressure, set goals and lead disciplined lives.
“MMA is more than physical fitness it is a tool for self-discovery and transformation … This sport is a meritocracy. If you have the talent and the heart, you can rise your background, connections or financial status in the cage.”
Unbeaten 'Pakido Warrior' tipped to draw with the UFC in 2025
Pakistani athletes have found success in Brave CF, the Professional Fighters League and one championship, but they don't have to leave a mark in the biggest promotion of all – the UFC.
Fortunately, there is an unbeaten 27-year-old who is said to have been signed with the promotion; 9-0 Lightweight prospect, Rizwan 'Pakido Warrior' Ali.
Ali scored a sensational first round knockout in the Co-Main event of Brave CF 92 in December, in which Ahmed celebrated that “We are now about to write history with Rizwan's access to the UFC.
“As soon as that happens, the MMA landscape of Pakistan will be changed forever.
“We have built up a clear pipeline for talent. Other federations have difficulty getting players on the field, while we have athletes who win medals, secure international contracts and build sustainable careers.”
While mixed martial arts continue to attract new hunters, fans and investors, Ahmed MMA wants to bring more schools and communities to Pakistan.
“Our journey is just starting … Pakistan is no longer on the sidelines of Global MMA – we make our mark and we will continue to rise.”
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