Special Report

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in Pakistan has grown from a grassroots movement into a national force, producing world-class fighters who are making their mark on the global stage. This rise, however, did not happen overnight-it is the result of monumental efforts, personal sacrifices, and an unyielding commitment to the sport.

At the heart of this transformation is through a dedicated team headed by the President of the Pakistan MMA Federation (PAKMMAF) Omar Ahmed whose relentless drive and personal investments have built the foundation for the sport in a country.

Unlike many federations that have not relied on government funding. They have organised major international-level MMA events without government support or sponsorship, ensuring that the sport grows on merit and legitimacy, not political favours.

More importantly, they used their own resources and made efforts in this regard to give athletes the opportunities to compete on the global stage.

Among the athletes who have directly benefitted from his unwavering support is Bano Butt, a rising star who is now inspiring the next generation of female fighters in Pakistan.

Bano Butt: The
rising star of
Pakistan MMA

Bano Butt is not just an athlete-she is a symbol of resilience, determination, and the changing face of women’s sports in Pakistan. With each fight, she is breaking stereotypes and proving that Pakistani women can excel in combat sports at the international level.

When asked about her aspirations, she laid out an ambitious but clear roadmap for her future:

“I want to make Pakistan proud. I want to go to the Olympics and win a gold medal for Pakistan. I want to become a World Champion in IMMAF. After that, I would like to go pro and eventually enter the UFC. My ultimate goal is to become a UFC World Champion. This is what I want to achieve.”

Bano has already given Pakistan one of its proudest moments in MMA by winning gold at the IMMAF Asian Championship, a victory she considers her most memorable achievement so far. “For me, the best moment as an MMA fighter was when I won a gold medal for Pakistan in the IMMAF Asian Championship. That was my most memorable moment, and I can never forget it.”

Her rise to the top has been far from easy, but with the support of Omar Ahmed and the Pakistan MMA Federation, she has overcome obstacles and is now one of Pakistan’s leading fighters.

Beyond her own success, Bano is passionate about inspiring and mentoring young girls in Pakistan, proving that they, too, can break barriers and achieve greatness: “I am deeply passionate about being a role model for young girls in Pakistan. I want to inspire them to dream big, break barriers, and believe in their own strength. Guiding them toward sports and helping them realise their true potential gives me a sense of purpose and pride.”

Her dedication to the sport, combined with the right mentorship and support, makes her a strong contender for international championships, and she is well on her way to making history in the UFC one day.

Pakistan MMA Federation: A new era of integrity and growth

MMA is no longer just an emerging sport in Pakistan-it is now a thriving industry. With a structured system of amateur and professional competitions fighters are getting the experience they need to transition into global promotions like IMMAF, BRAVE CF, and eventually, the UFC.

However, what sets the Pakistan MMA Federation apart from other sporting bodies in the country is its integrity and transparency. Unlike federations that have been accused of exploiting athletes, misusing government funds, and even human trafficking, PAKMMAF has remained athlete-centric, ensuring that fighters are supported, not financially burdened.

MMA Federation has ensured that Pakistani MMA does not just survive but thrives, producing world-class athletes who represent the country with pride on the global stage.

The Road Ahead: A future of champions

With fighters like Bano Butt leading the charge the future of MMA in Pakistan looks brighter. As the Pakistan MMA Federation continues to grow, more fighters will rise to international prominence, and the sport will continue to gain mainstream recognition.

At its core, MMA is more than just a sport -it is a vehicle for change, empowerment and national pride. As more young boys and girls step into the cage, inspired by those who have come before them, Pakistan’s MMA scene will continue to produce champions who make the nation proud on the world stage.

With top Pakistan fighters breaking records and MMA Federation revolutionising the sport, Pakistan is no longer just competing in MMA -it is becoming a powerhouse.