ABU DHABI — Emirati fighter Rakan Alyammahi delivered a standout performance on home soil, winning gold in the Youth B men’s 44kg division at the IMMAF Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi.
Alyammahi defeated Ireland’s Roman Verhoeven in the final at Mubadala Arena, adding another gold medal to the UAE’s growing collection at the international youth mixed martial arts tournament.
His victory, combined with a bronze medal won by fellow Emirati Mustafa Almaqboul in the same weight class, lifted the UAE’s overall medal count to 17. The host nation has now collected six gold, five silver and six bronze medals at the championships.
The Youth B competition features fighters aged 14 and 15 and is being contested over two days. More than 1,100 young athletes from 55 countries are taking part in the Abu Dhabi championships, creating a highly competitive international field for the emerging fighters.
Alyammahi’s gold was not the only success for his family at the tournament. His brother, Khaleifah Alyammahi, also secured gold in the Youth C men’s 48kg division, giving the siblings a memorable double victory for the UAE.
The championships have provided young fighters with an opportunity to compete against opponents from a wide range of countries and fighting backgrounds. Coaches participating in the event have highlighted the value of that international exposure, particularly for athletes looking to develop the experience and adaptability needed for higher levels of competition.
For Abu Dhabi, the tournament also reinforces the city’s growing role as a host for major international combat-sports events. The UAE has continued to build experience by staging the IMMAF Youth World Championships, while the latest edition has once again brought hundreds of young athletes, coaches and officials from around the world to the capital.
With competition continuing through the week, the UAE will now look to add to its medal haul as its young fighters continue their campaign on home ground.
