GAMMA U18 World Championships Conclude with Spirited Competition

11 October 2023

The GAMMA U18 World Championships reached a thrilling conclusion after two intense and action-packed days of competition in the vibrant Greek city of Alexandroupoli. Nearly 200 bouts unfolded, showcasing the immense talent of young athletes from across the globe. A total of 13 out of the 15 participating nations left with well-deserved silverware, underlining the depth of promising young talent in the world of combat sports.

The Ukrainian delegation emerged as the dominant force, securing the top spot on the medals table with an impressive haul of 10 gold medals and 24 in total. The USA closely trailed with 9 gold medals and a total of 20, while Kazakhstan secured the third position with 5 gold medals and 17 in total. The host nation, Greece, showcased its combat sports heritage, standing out with 2 gold medals and a total of 18.

Greece, known for its rich tradition in combat sports, lived up to its reputation as the hosts delighted spectators with phenomenal performances from the next generation of combat stars. The young athletes left an indelible mark on the history of the sport, showcasing their skills, determination, and passion.

The championship demonstrated not only the competitive nature of the event but also the camaraderie and respect among athletes. While victory was reserved for a select few, the tatami mats for the youngsters and the ring for those aged 14 and above witnessed a spectrum of emotions. Athletes competed with honor, dignity, and respect, creating a vibrant atmosphere that resonated with supporters and teammates alike.

Youth Championships hold a special place in the world of sports, bringing together athletes who may be competing internationally for the first time. This unique experience presents both challenges and opportunities, contributing to the development of young talents. GAMMA President Alexander Engelhardt commended the spirit of the competition, emphasizing the camaraderie, atmosphere, and friendliness that characterized the event.

Engelhardt remarked, “Youth Championships are something unique in any sport, they bring together athletes that may never have competed internationally before, and that brings new challenges but also new experiences which is an integral part of the pathway of young athletes. The competition was very competitive, but what I was very pleased to see was the spirit of the competition, the atmosphere, and the friendliness of everyone towards each other. This may be a combat sport, but it is a great community of people who all respect each other and have the same goal of seeing the sport of MMA continually develop. I want to thank the organizers and for everyone who was able to travel to Greece for this event.” The success of the GAMMA U18 World Championships not only celebrated the achievements of young athletes but also reinforced the sense of community and shared dedication to the continual evolution of MMA on a global scale.