Lebanon showcased its rising talent in mixed martial arts at the IMMAF World Youth MMA Championship 2024, held in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The Lebanese team took home an impressive haul of two silver and two bronze medals, marking a significant achievement for the country's MMA scene. Three out of the four medals were claimed by female athletes, highlighting the growing strength and development of Lebanese women in the sport.
Medal-Winning Performances by Lebanese Athletes
Lebanese athletes competed fiercely, with notable victories across various weight and age divisions. Here’s a closer look at the medalists and their impressive performances:
- Angelina Neaimi - Youth A (16-17), 47.7kg
Angelina brought home a silver medal 🥈, after a series of remarkable wins. She dominated her matches with skillful submissions and secured three wins, including a triangle armbar victory over Team Romania 🇷🇴 and an armbar finish against Team India 🇮🇳 and a decision win over Team USA 🇺🇸 . In the final, she faced Team Ukraine 🇺🇦 and fought valiantly, ultimately losing via split decision.
- Ayla Zgheib - Youth C (12-13), 44kg
Ayla earned a silver medal🥈 and demonstrated exceptional technical ability. She secured a unanimous decision win over Team USA 🇺🇸, followed by a swift armbar victory over Team Mongolia 🇲🇳. Despite her powerful showing, she was narrowly defeated by Team Ukraine 🇺🇦 in the finals through a rear-naked choke submission.
- Marita Bou Farhat - Youth B (14-15), 62kg
Marita clinched a bronze medal*🥉, showcasing her talent with a decisive straight armbar victory over Team Ukraine 🇺🇦. She narrowly missed the silver medal after a challenging match against Team Angola 🇦🇴, where she was bested via armbar.
- Adnan Zarif - Youth C (12-13), 44kg
Adnan displayed skill and tenacity to win Lebanon's fourth medal with a bronze 🥉. He began his campaign with a unanimous decision win over Team Ireland 🇮🇪, followed by an armbar victory over Team Bahrain 🇧🇭. In his final match, he put up a spirited fight against Team Poland 🇵🇱, ultimately finishing in third place.
Lebanese Female Strength and Development in MMA
This year’s competition emphasized the emerging strength of Lebanese female athletes in the sport. With Ayla Zgheib and Angelina Neaimi each securing silver medals and Marita Bou Farhat earning bronze, these young women are proving themselves as formidable athletes on the international stage. Their success underscores the dedication of Lebanon’s female fighters and the nation’s commitment to developing a robust presence in MMA.
Looking to the Future
Lebanon’s accomplishments in the IMMAF World Youth MMA Championship 2024 are a testament to the growing talent and passion for MMA in the country. These young athletes have demonstrated remarkable discipline and skill, and their achievements set a high standard for future Lebanese fighters. With continued support and development, Lebanon’s MMA scene is positioned for a promising future in international competitions.
