Pakistan Emerges as Rising MMA Power at IMMAF World Championship

Pakistan delivered one of its strongest performances to date at the 2025 IMMAF World Championship, signalling its growing status as a rising force in global mixed martial arts. Competing against some of the sport’s most established amateur nations, the Pakistani contingent claimed several high-profile victories, defeated former world champions, and impressed officials and spectators with their technical ability and resilience.

Held in Georgia, this year’s championship welcomed more than 800 fighters from 72 countries, making it one of the largest events in IMMAF history. Pakistan was represented by a 10-member squad, mixing experienced amateurs with promising newcomers.

Breakthrough Performances Across Weight Divisions

Among the standout performers was Shahab Ali, who produced a remarkable run in the lightweight division, defeating opponents from Ukraine, Zambia, and Tajikistan—each regarded as among the strongest national programmes in amateur MMA. Ali’s composed, striking, well-timed takedowns and tactical discipline earned him widespread praise from international coaches and analysts. By the end of the tournament, he had been named Fighter of the Tournament, a significant milestone for both him and the Pakistan team.

In the strawweight category, Abdul Manan delivered one of the most striking upsets of the competition. Facing Zambia’s reigning world champion, Ali Yur Suvonberdiev, Manan displayed exceptional composure under pressure. He successfully neutralised Suvonberdiev’s grappling strengths, controlling key exchanges and ultimately securing a decisive victory. Observers noted that Manan’s win demonstrated Pakistan’s increasing technical maturity in lower-weight divisions, an area previously dominated by Eastern European and Central Asian fighters. Pakistan also found success in the featherweight division, where Ayan Hussain claimed victory against Bulgaria’s Qaderjan Isa. Hussain’s performance was marked by fluid movement and effective counterattacks, reflecting the tactical evolution within Pakistan’s amateur system.

Professional Talent and Setbacks

In addition to amateur success, Pakistan’s professional talent made an impression. Ismail Khan, known for his striking-heavy approach, delivered a first-round knockout against his Azerbaijani opponent. Though his bout took place outside the amateur scoring brackets, it contributed to Pakistan’s strong overall showing during the event.

However, the tournament was not without setbacks. Bano Butt, one of Pakistan’s most experienced female fighters, suffered a fractured arm during competition and is currently receiving medical treatment. Her injury interrupted what many expected to be a promising run in the women’s division. Team officials described her condition as stable and praised her determination, noting that she intends to resume training once fully recovered.

Recognition for Pakistan’s MMA Governance

Away from the mats, Pakistan’s growing reputation also gained formal recognition. Umar Ahmed, president of the Pakistan Mixed Martial Arts Federation, was appointed South Asia Director on the IMMAF Asia Board. The position places Pakistan in a more influential role within the regional development of amateur MMA, allowing the federation greater involvement in athlete development programmes, competition structures, and regulatory policy. Ahmed said the achievement reflected Pakistan’s steady progress in building pathways that transition amateur fighters into professional careers. He also noted that the national team had competed without any direct financial support from the government, relying instead on local sponsors and community fundraising.

A Turning Point for Pakistan on the Global Stage

Pakistan’s performance has been widely interpreted as a turning point, both domestically and internationally. Analysts say the success of multiple fighters across different weight categories—combined with strategic leadership gains—suggests that Pakistan is now firmly on the radar as an emerging MMA nation.

The results in Georgia have already generated significant attention among global MMA fans, with commentators noting Pakistan’s rapid improvement in striking and grappling fundamentals. Social media activity following the tournament highlighted an increase in interest from international gyms, scouts, and promotional organisations. For Pakistan’s fighters, the championship marks another step forward in their long-term aspirations. Training camps across the country are already preparing for upcoming regional events, with athletes aiming to convert this momentum into future international success. As Pakistan continues to build its amateur base and invest in structured coaching, conditioning, and competition experience, many believe the country is well-positioned to become a consistent contender at IMMAF events.

The strong showing in 2025 has set the tone for what supporters hope will be a defining era in Pakistan’s mixed martial arts journey.