Abu Dhabi: The second Abu Dhabi Warriors Fighting Championship at the Ipic Arena on Thursday night has put the UAE on the international mixed martial arts (MMA) map, according to organisers.
Twenty fighters from around the world entertained hundreds of fans in a series of 10 bouts in a variety of weight classes, including lightweight (under 70kg), middleweight (under 84kg) and heavyweight (under 120kg).
MMA mixes the disciplines of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, judo, Muay Thai, wrestling, boxing and kickboxing.
Fighters from countries including Russia, Korea, Canada and the US used striking and grappling techniques to counter their opponent’s strengths in bouts that last between three and five five-minute rounds.
Lubomir Guedjev, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Warriors, was delighted with the response to the second edition of the championship. He said: “This competition has put the UAE on the international map in the arena of MMA. We are thrilled and proud to promote MMA in the region through a platform such as Abu Dhabi Warriors.
“The competition showcases the skills and sportsmanship of international and local fighters in the true spirit of MMA, based on the values of respect, honour, commitment and personal development.
“Abu Dhabi Warriors is also committed to supporting the development of youth and sports in the UAE. By increasing interest in this sport in the UAE, we will help encourage and develop fighters on a local level, thus promoting the UAE’s reputation in the field of combat sport.”
The highlights of the evening were the heavyweight showdowns between former Strikeforce prospect Brett Rogers (US) and Derrick Mehmen (US) and Baga Agaev (RUS) versus Mike Kyle (US). Mehmen and Kyle were crowned the champions at the end of the evening.
The event, which was backed by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, started with the featherweight clash between Yuan Ye (China) and Yoo Jae-nam (South Korea), with Yuan taking top honours.
For more details visit www.abudhabi-warriors.com or www.facebook.com/ADWarriors.
