The Global Association of Mixed Martial Arts (GAMMA) has reached a historic milestone with the establishment of the GAMMA Asian Confederation (ASCOMMA), approved during the General Assembly held as part of the 3rd GAMMA Asian Championship in Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,
The creation of the Asian Confederation marks a significant step forward in strengthening the governance and development of amateur Mixed Martial Arts across Asia. The Confederation will enhance cooperation among national federations, expand competition opportunities, support athlete development, promote education for coaches, referees, officials, and contribute to the continued growth of amateur MMA throughout the region.
Following the decision of the General Assembly, the inaugural Executive Board of the GAMMA Asian Confederation was elected:
• President: Babyrzhan (“Babur”) Tolbaev (Kyrgyzstan)
• First Vice President: Sirichet Punthipayanon (Thailand)
• Vice President: Hojiakbar Khakimov (Uzbekistan)
• General Secretary: Tariq Ali (Pakistan)
• Executive Board Member: OH Jun Hyuk (Republic of Korea)
The Executive Board will work closely with GAMMA and its member federations to strengthen governance, organize international championships, develop educational programs, and create greater opportunities for athletes across Asia.
GAMMA President Shared Vision
Welcoming the establishment of the Asian Confederation, GAMMA President Mr. Tommy Paulus Hermawan reaffirmed the organization’s mission:
“Our mission is to unite the world through the discipline and spirit of Mixed Martial Arts. We are building a legacy of safety, honor, and global recognition.”
The newly established Confederation fully supports this vision and is committed to advancing the development of Mixed Martial Arts amateur across Asia through excellence, integrity, education, and international cooperation.
ASCOMMA President’s Remarks
Accepting the responsibility of leading the newly established Confederation, President Babur Tolbaev expressed his gratitude to GAMMA and all member federations for their confidence.
“It is a great honor to serve the MMA community of Asia. Together with my colleagues, we will work to strengthen cooperation among national federations, create more opportunities for athletes, support youth development, and contribute to the continued growth of amateur Mixed Martial Arts across our continent.”
President Tolbaev also briefly referred to an initiative he first proposed to GAMMA in 2021, encouraging athletes to compete not only for sporting success but also for a meaningful purpose that contributes to society.
“Back in 2021, I presented this concept to GAMMA as a vision for encouraging athletes to compete not only for medals and titles, but also for a purpose that benefits society. I am grateful that the current GAMMA leadership has shown strong interest in this vision, and I look forward to working together on its future development.”
The concept, tentatively titled “I Fight For,” encourages athletes to identify a personal purpose that inspires them both inside the competition arena and in everyday life. Further details of the initiative are expected to be presented at a later stage.
Strategic Priorities
The Executive Board has identified the following priorities for the coming years:
• Strengthen cooperation among Asian national federations.
• Expand the calendar of Asian championships and international competitions.
• Increase participation opportunities for youth athletes.
• Improve education and certification for coaches, referees, and officials.
• Promote integrity, respect, discipline, and athlete welfare.
• Encourage innovation and international collaboration to advance amateur MMA throughout Asia
Looking Ahead
The establishment of the GAMMA Asian Confederation marks the beginning of a new chapter for amateur Mixed Martial Arts in Asia.
Working together with GAMMA and its member federations, the Confederation aims to create new opportunities for athletes, strengthen international partnerships, and contribute to a future where sport serves not only as a platform for competition, but also as a force for peace, friendship, education, and positive social impact.
Together, we are building a stronger future for amateur Mixed Martial Arts in Asia.
