There is an ‘MMA revolution’ taking place in Pakistan – and the nation’s best MMA fighters are eagerly awaiting their chance to shine on the greatest stage of them all.
When you think about the top combat sports nations in Asia: Japan, South Korea, China, Thailand, Bahrain, and the UAE might be the first that spring to mind – but probably not Pakistan.
Well, fans should expect to see far more fighters emerging from this region in the next few years, with the nation experiencing a monumental explosion in MMA interest and investment.
The rise of Mixed Martial Arts in Pakistan has gripped a generation
According to Omar Ahmed, President of the Pakistan MMA Federation, Mixed Martial Arts is rapidly overtaking Cricket as the most popular sport among the country’s youth.
“MMA is a pure test of skill, heart, and strategy, which is why it captivates today’s generation,” Ahmed explained in a series of interviews with media outlets.
“This sport is a reflection of today’s world, i.e., fast-paced, unpredictable, and real… When two fighters step into the cage, it transcends borders, language, and backgrounds. It’s a pure test of skill, resilience, and strategy.
“Our young generation is drawn to MMA like never before,” continued Ahmed: “The sport is raw, real, and offers a clear path from grassroots to the world stage.”
Pakistani athletes have already made waves at the IMMAF World Championships, but the nation’s crowning achievement came with their hosting of the Asian MMA Championships in 2024.
That event attracted hundreds of athletes and was broadcast in over 100 countries worldwide, which Ahmed described as “the largest sporting event in Pakistan since the 1996 Cricket World Cup and the 2004 South Asian Games.”
In Pakistan, as in various countries around the world, MMA had immense difficulty breaking into the mainstream sports market due to its inherently violent nature.
Ahmed believes that because of the UFC’s global expansion, those barriers are now being broken down as the nation comes to terms with the countless benefits that MMA offers the next generation.
“These initiatives shape young minds, fostering confidence and responsibility. We’re not just training fighters; we’re developing individuals who can handle pressure, set goals, and lead disciplined lives.
“MMA is more than physical fitness—it’s a tool for self-discovery and transformation… This sport is a meritocracy. If you have the talent and the heart, you can rise – your background, connections, or financial status don’t matter in the cage.”
Undefeated ‘Pakido Warrior’ tipped to sign with the UFC in 2025
Pakistani athletes have found success in Brave CF, the Professional Fighters League, and ONE Championship, but they are yet to make their mark in the biggest promotion of them all – the UFC.
Luckily, there’s an undefeated 27-year-old who is reportedly on the cusp of being signed to the promotion; 9-0 lightweight prospect, Rizwan ‘Pakido Warrior’ Ali.
Ali scored a sensational first-round knockout in the co-main event of Brave CF 92 in December, with Ahmed celebrating that “We are now on the verge of making history with Rizwan’s entry into the UFC.
“Once that happens, Pakistan’s MMA landscape will be changed forever.
“We have built a clear pipeline for talent. Other federations struggle to get players on the field, while we have athletes winning medals, securing international contracts, and building sustainable careers.”
As Mixed Martial Arts continues to attract new fighters, fans, and investors, Ahmed is keen to bring MMA to more schools and communities across Pakistan.
“Our journey is just beginning… Pakistan is no longer on the sidelines of global MMA – we are making our mark, and we will continue to rise.”