Mixed martial arts continues to grow in popularity in Qatar. The Gulf region constitutes a promising market for international organizations like ONE and the PFL.
Combat sports fans are thriving across the Middle East, and martial arts organizations like One Championship Group are keen to capitalize on the demand. Team Qatar 365 had a front row seat at ONE Championship’s historic first tournament in Qatar.
During an action-packed fight night at the Lusail Sports Arena, international fighters like undefeated MMA champion Anatoly Malykhin treated fans to a world-class spectacle. The event also featured MENA champions, including Iranian heavyweight Amir Aliakbari, considered the Middle East’s best hope to win a title.
Aadel Haleem spoke with Chatri Sityodtong, founder and CEO of ONE Championship, who explained why the values of martial arts – respect, humility, resilience, integrity, courage, discipline and fighting spirit – are instilled in its fighters. Beyond violence, he added: “Martial arts provide one of the best platforms for unlocking human potential.”
Laila Humairah took a closer look at another MMA group, the Professional Fighters League. She met promising PFL fighters, like Biaggio Ali Walsh, the grandson of boxing legend Muhammad Ali. Biaggio is carving his own path in combat sports and says that while pressure comes with inheriting his grandfather’s career, he doesn’t fear it. “Pressure makes diamonds. I hope one day I become a diamond because of all this pressure,” he told Laila.
Laila also met Hattan Saif, the first ever Saudi woman to sign a deal with an international MMA league. Hattan is part of the PFL’s Middle East and North Africa roster. The 22-year-old fighter believes it is her duty to inspire and empower other girls to overcome societal barriers.