United World Wrestling Embraces Amateur Mixed Martial Arts (amma) In Historic Move
In an unprecedented step forward for combat sports, United World Wrestling (UWW) has formally announced the adoption of Amateur Mixed Martial Arts (AMMA) as a sanctioned discipline. This decision underscores UWW’s dedication to expanding its portfolio of traditional and contemporary combat sports, while maintaining its commitment to athlete development, safety, and organizational efficiency.
AMMA: A Natural Evolution of Pankration Elite
Historically rooted in the discipline of Pankration, AMMA represents a refined and modernized approach to the sport. Recognizing the similarities between Pankration Elite and mixed martial arts, UWW has rebranded the discipline as Amateur MMA while preserving its foundational elements and safety standards.
UWW has emphasized its focus on athlete safety and rule compliance, with updated regulations now available to guide National Federations in managing the discipline.
Unified Management for Combat Disciplines
In a move to streamline operations and foster collaboration, UWW has announced the formation of a unified committee to oversee AMMA, Grappling, and Pankration. This approach reflects UWW’s vision to reduce costs, enhance organizational efficiency, and create synergies between related combat sports disciplines. Athlete, Coaches, and Technical Commissions will support this committee, ensuring a well-rounded approach to the growth and governance of these sports.
National Federations’ Role
UWW has called on its Affiliated and Associated National Federations to take a leadership role in developing AMMA within their respective countries. Federations are encouraged to establish robust management structures to ensure proper participation, documentation, and adherence to international standards.
For countries where National Wrestling Federations opt not to lead AMMA initiatives, UWW has outlined procedures for associating alternate federations to oversee the discipline. This flexibility aims to ensure the rapid and credible development of AMMA globally.
Pathway to Growth and the Olympics
The adoption of AMMA aligns with UWW’s broader strategy to elevate combat sports to the highest levels of competition, including the Olympic Games. By bringing AMMA under its governance, UWW ensures consistent rules, athlete safety, and the integration of the sport into its global calendar of events.
Federations that do not engage with AMMA by participating in competitions or submitting required documentation by January 2025 risk losing their role in managing the discipline. This measure underscores UWW’s commitment to fostering active engagement and growth.