Abu Dhabi: The seventh edition of the IMMAF Youth World Championships gets underway tomorrow (Monday, August 17) at Mubadala Arena, with more than 1,100 athletes from 55 countries set to compete in Abu Dhabi until 23 August.Organised by the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) and hosted by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, the championship returns to Abu Dhabi for the fifth consecutive year following a series of successful editions.The organising committee has completed all preparations for the event, with organisational, technical, administrative and logistical arrangements in place ahead of seven days of competition.The tournament will begin with the Youth D category for athletes aged 10-11 on Monday, followed by:Youth C (12-13 years) on 18 AugustYouth B (14-15 years) on 19 and 20 AugustYouth A (16-17 years) during the final three days of the championshipThe UAE National Team will compete with a squad of 47 athletes across the four age divisions, including 19 competitors taking part in the opening day's Youth D competition.Kerrith Brown, President of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation, said: "We are delighted to stage the seventh edition of the IMMAF Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi, which is hosting the event for the fifth consecutive year. Our continued partnership with the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation has helped us develop the championship each year as the number of athletes and participating countries continues to grow."He added: "Everything is in place for the championship, and we look forward to welcoming athletes and delegations from around the world. We are confident this year's event will build on the success of previous editions and provide everyone involved with a world-class experience."Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, said the success of the tournament is built on extensive planning and coordination."With more than 1,100 athletes and seven days of competition, our focus is on making sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. We have full confidence in the expertise and capabilities of the teams working behind the scenes to deliver another successful edition and further strengthen Abu Dhabi's reputation for hosting major international sporting events."The championship is expected to bring together some of the world's most promising young mixed martial arts athletes, further reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a leading destination for international combat sports events.
