Manila to host MMA tournament in October

MANILA, September 19 ------ The Philippines will host the  inaugural Asian Mixed Martial Arts (AMMA) Manila Open on October 14-16 in Pasay City, organizers announced. A total of 130 fighters from various countries will showcase a blend of traditional and modern martial arts techniques. Ten Filipino fighters will represent the Philippines, with Nasyonal Mixed Martial Arts Pederasyon ng Pilipinas Secretary General Alvin Aguilar noting that the fighters have been carefully selected, with the final roster to be confirmed soon. "We are always looking for the best to represent our country, what's important is that we have a fair selection and make sure only the best represent our country and once we're there we make sure they get the best support and we'll make sure mananalo sila," Aguilar said. 

Established in 2022 in Singapore, AMMA aims to promote and develop mixed martial arts across Asia. It is the only pan-Asian mixed martial arts federation recognized by the Olympic Council of Asia. The successful hosting of the Inaugural Asian Mixed Martial Arts Championship in Thailand in 2023 brought fresh energy to the sport across the region. It also served as a springboard to elevate the sport's recognition both in Asia and globally. 

AMMA Sports Director Galastein Tan shared that fighter selection for the Manila Open is based on official rankings and recent performances. "We have had two competitions previously and we opened the registration to all the NF, NOCs so they can sign up, we have 130 sign ups and we based on their performance so those who have won the first 2023 championship and 2024 championship gets priority and the next batch is based on their rankings in the world," Tan explained. 

Meanwhile, Philippine Olympic Committee President Bambol Tolentino said MMA could soon be included during regional games. This could be another potential medal source for the country. "Watch out for that, maybe in a few weeks or a few months baka biglang ma-announce na MMA will be included in the SEA Games and Nagoya. Not only an honor for the Philippines but for the entire members of these Asian MMA Group," he said. 

Source: news.abs-cbn.com