Manama, Bahrain, August 27, 2025: The Olympic Council of Asia is proud to be involved in putting down roots for the growth of mixed martial arts in the region said Dr. Thani Abdulrahman Al Kuwari, OCA Vice President, at the closing ceremony of the 1stOCA-AMMA Development Programme for Coaches and Referees.
In his keynote address to participants of the three-day programme on Wednesday, August 27, Dr. Thani said: “You are creating the future of MMA in Asia and the OCA is proud to be part of this journey.
“More than training and learning, you have built friendships and shared in the passion for MMA. Everyone at OCA feels a deep sense of pride and gratitude,” he noted.
The 107 coaches and referees from 30 Asian National Olympic Committees received their certificates from Dr. Thani, Bahrain Olympic Committee Secretary General Faris Al-Kooheji, OCA Deputy Director General Vinod Kumar Tiwari, and Asian Mixed Martial Arts Association Director General Galastein Tan.
BOC Secretary General Al-Kooheji said: “It was a complete pleasure to host you. We have more than 100 people from 30 NOCs. If we were given more notice, I’m sure we could have got all 45 Asian NOCs represented here.
Tan thanked the OCA, and hosts BOC and the Bahrain MMA Association, for putting on a good show and for the hospitality shown. He urged all coaches and referees to continue working hard to propagate the sport.
“MMA is growing fast but it can only grow stronger if we work together. I hope you can go back home and inspire others to take up MMA. During the last three days, you have helped each other. I saw new friendships and lots of laughter.
Before I conclude, I want each of you to reach out to your neighbour, say thank you and let's grow MMA together.
It resulted in joyous scenes around the ballroom at the Bahrain Conference Centre as all participants celebrated with new-found friends.
“This shows that MMA is not just about fighting, it’s about respect and friendship,” Tan pointed out.
