Pakistan has fielded a seven-member mixed martial arts (MMA) squad at the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) World Championships in Georgia, seeking to strengthen its presence on the international combat sports stage as more than 1,000 fighters from over 70 countries converge in Tbilisi.
The prestigious championship, scheduled to run from November 1 to 7, brings together some of the world's leading MMA talent in a major international contest, offering participating nations an opportunity to test their fighters against elite competition. Pakistan's participation comes as the country's MMA federation seeks to establish a stronger international sporting profile and demonstrate the growing competitiveness of its fighters beyond traditional sports disciplines.
The squad includes:
1. Shayan Mehdi – Karachi | Strawweight (52.2 kg)
2. Shams Ur Rehman – Karachi | Bantamweight (61.2 kg)
3. Syed Muhammad Qaim Abass – Lahore | Super Lightweight (74.8 kg)
4. Saria Khan – Rawalakot/Poonch | Atomweight (47.6 kg)
5. Maliha Ali – Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan | Featherweight (65.8 kg)
6. Manisha Ali – Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan | Lightweight (70.3 kg)
7. Hamood Ali Wajid – Lahore | Junior Super Lightweight (74.8 kg)
Pakistan MMA Federation President Omar Ahmed described the seven-member squad as the strongest contingent the country had ever assembled for the World Championships. Expressing confidence in the team's preparation and capabilities, he said the fighters were ready to challenge leading international competitors. The statement signals the federation's ambition to move Pakistan's MMA programme beyond limited international participation and build a more competitive presence in a sport that has gained considerable global recognition.
The IMMAF World Championships represent far more than an opportunity to win medals. They provide a recognised pathway towards the world’s leading professional MMA organisations, including the UFC and BRAVE Combat Federation.
Ahmed also highlighted the importance of private-sector support in making international participation possible. “I am deeply grateful to all our sponsors and supporters who have stepped forward to back these young athletes. Their support is not simply funding a sporting event. It is investing in Pakistan’s future champions, the superstars of tomorrow and a generation that can inspire millions of young Pakistanis.”
The participation of more than 1,000 fighters from over 70 countries also makes the championship a significant test of Pakistan's sporting depth. Competing against athletes from established MMA programmes will provide the Pakistani contingent with an opportunity to assess its technical standards, preparation and ability to perform under international pressure.
For Pakistan, the competition carries significance beyond individual bouts. International exposure can help its fighters gain experience, improve their competitive standards and establish connections within the global MMA community. However, the country's growing ambitions in combat sports will ultimately depend on sustained institutional support, professional training facilities, coaching standards and investment in developing talent at the grassroots level.