VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

Irish fighter Aaron Clarke (right) lands a kick on his opponent Indonesian fighter Sony Rizaldi (left) at a competition held in Jakarta, Saturday (16/9/2023) night. ANTARA FOTO/Indrianto Eko Suwarso/foc

VOInews, Jakarta : Indonesia is set to host the GAMMA World Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Championship in Dewa MMA Arena of Banten province from December 11–14, 2024, which will draw participation from about 500 athletes representing 42 countries.

At a press conference at his office in Jakarta on Tuesday, Youth and Sports Minister Dito Ariotedjo lauded the Mixed Martial Arts Association of Indonesia (Pertacami) for successfully bringing the international tournament to Indonesia.

He also urged the national association to scout Indonesian MMA athletes who have the potential to represent the country at similar competitions.

Ariotedjo underscored that Indonesia needs talented and skilled MMA fighters to compete at the SEA Games, Asian Games, or even the Olympics once MMA is included in the world's largest sporting event.

"We are looking forward to witnessing many fighters representing Indonesia and being successful in the MMA professional scene," he said.

The minister also expressed the hope that the MMA scene in Indonesia will develop on a massive scale.

Pertacami chair Tommy Paulus, on his part, confirmed that the Global Association of MMA (GAMMA) has given Indonesia the honor to organize the fourth iteration of the world-level championship this year.

He stated that the association has taken several preparatory steps despite facing some challenges. He hinted that the number of athletes competing at the tournament could increase, considering that the registration period has been extended till November 20.

He then called for support from all parties for the smooth running of the global tournament, which is expected to further strengthen Indonesia's image as a reliable host of international events//Antara-VOI