In a major boost for combat sports, the government has formally backed the development of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in Pakistan through a new partnership between the Prime Minister’s Youth Program (PMYP) and the Pakistan Mixed Martial Arts Federation (PMMAF). The agreement aims to create greater opportunities for young athletes and strengthen Pakistan’s presence on the international MMA stage.
The Letter of Intent (LoI) was signed during a meeting chaired by PMYP Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan in Islamabad. Under the collaboration, both organizations will work to identify emerging talent, organize national MMA championships, conduct training camps, and support athletes competing internationally.
Officials said the initiative aligns with the government’s youth empowerment agenda, focusing on discipline, leadership, fitness, and positive engagement through sports. The partnership will also promote healthy lifestyles, anti-drug awareness campaigns, and community-based programs for young Pakistanis.
PMMAF President Babar Qayyum Raja described the agreement as a significant step toward creating professional pathways for aspiring fighters and accelerating the growth of MMA across the country.
The move marks the first major state-backed effort to integrate MMA into Pakistan’s broader sports development framework, signaling growing recognition of one of the world’s fastest-growing sports