MMA more popular than cricket among Pakistan’s Gen Z, says President Omar Ahmed
MMA more popular than cricket among Pakistan’s Gen Z, says President Omar Ahmed
Lahore ; MMA is more than just a sport; it reflects the modern world—fast-paced, raw, and authentic. According to Omar Ahmed, President of the Pakistan MMA Federation, its appeal lies in its pure competition of skill, heart, and strategy, resonating deeply with the younger generation.
The sport’s global expansion is undeniable, with regions like the Middle East investing heavily, transforming MMA into a powerful tool for nation branding and economic growth.
Pakistan has embraced this momentum, emerging as a rising force in the global MMA landscape. “We’ve always been a nation of fighters—resilient, determined, and fearless,” Ahmed stated.
The sport’s popularity has skyrocketed, particularly among Gen Z, surpassing even cricket. Pakistani fighters have made their mark at IMMAF World Championships, bringing home medals and earning recognition on international platforms.
Professional stars like Rizwan Ali are pushing boundaries, with his knockouts in Brave Combat Federation putting him on the brink of a historic UFC debut.
Beyond competition, the Pakistan MMA Federation is actively reshaping perceptions of combat sports. Ahmed emphasized that MMA is about discipline, control, and self-mastery, not violence.
Countries like Bahrain and the UAE have integrated martial arts into school curriculums, recognizing its role in building character and mental resilience. Inspired by this model, Pakistan is fostering structured programs that equip young athletes with life skills, emotional stability, and a sense of purpose.
The sport’s global appeal stems from its clear meritocratic path. Unlike traditional sports, MMA offers athletes a structured route from grassroots to professional leagues, with lucrative opportunities at the top. “If you can fight, you can rise,” Ahmed asserted, highlighting MMA’s growing dominance in the global sports industry.
Pakistan recently reached a milestone with Pakistan Combat Week, hosting the Asian MMA Championships 2024, the country’s biggest sporting event since the 1996 Cricket World Cup.
Over 300 athletes, coaches, and officials from across Asia participated, with Pakistan securing 12 medals. The event was broadcast in over 100 countries, reaching millions globally and cementing Pakistan’s status as a key player in international MMA.
What sets the Pakistan MMA Federation apart from struggling sports bodies is its independence from government funding. “While others waited for handouts, we focused on competence and commitment,” Ahmed said.
The federation built a self-sustaining ecosystem, launching the Real World Fight League (RWFL)—an accessible, grassroots platform akin to tape-ball cricket in MMA. This initiative, along with a structured talent pipeline, ensures that fighters transition seamlessly from local competitions to international stages.
Looking ahead to 2025, the federation has set ambitious goals: securing Rizwan Ali’s UFC contract, winning more medals at IMMAF World Championships, and launching Pakistan’s first major professional MMA league.
With strategic planning, relentless passion, and a rapidly growing fan base, Ahmed believes Pakistan is poised to become a global MMA powerhouse. “This is just the beginning,” he affirmed. “Pakistan’s MMA revolution is here to stay.”
