“On behalf of the board as President of IMMAF, I’m very proud to announce that we’ve negotiated a three-year deal with Georgia to host the IMMAF World Championships,” said IMMAF president Kerrith Brown.
“Georgia is a strong fighting nation with a rich tradition in elite-level combat sports, particularly in judo and wrestling.
“This long-term commitment not only strengthens MMA development in Europe but also supports IMMAF’s global mission to grow the sport worldwide. Georgia is a fantastic destination, and we are excited for what’s ahead.
“I would like to extend special thanks to Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Sports Minister Shalva Gogoladze, First Deputy Minister Irakli Medzmariashvili, and Giorgi Kabulashvili, President of the Georgian MMA Federation, for their support. We look forward to delivering the very best World Championships over the next three years.”
Scheduled to run from September 27 to October 2, the 2025 World Championships will feature both Junior and Senior divisions and is anticipated to be the largest event in IMMAF history. The announcement follows Georgia’s strong showing at the recent IMMAF European Championships, where the national team secured eight medals, including two golds.
The Championships are being delivered in collaboration with Georgia’s Ministry of Sport and will shine a spotlight on the country’s deep-rooted combat sports culture and rising influence in global MMA.
“It is a remarkable honour for Georgia to host the IMMAF World Championships in the Junior and Senior divisions across 2025, 2026, and 2027, said president of the Georgian Mixed Martial Arts National Federation Giorgi Kabulashvili
“This multi-year partnership with IMMAF highlights our nation’s deep commitment to the development of mixed martial arts and our growing role as a regional hub for international sport. We look forward to welcoming IMMAF, athletes, officials, and passionate fans from around the world to Tbilisi, where together we will deliver an unforgettable, world-class event.”
As preparations for this milestone event get underway, Shalva Gogoladze, Minister of Sports of Georgia, added: “It is a great honour for us to host the World Championship under the auspices of IMMAF. MMA enjoys exceptional popularity in Georgia, thanks in large part to athletes like Ilia Topuria, Merab Dvalishvili, and Roman Dolidze. Their success has inspired a new generation to take up MMA and pursue excellence as world-class fighters and athletes.
“With the support of the Ministry of Sports, Georgian fighters actively participate in the IMMAF World Championship, and their achievements highlight Georgia as a nation of powerful fighters and exceptional talent. We believe that hosting the World Championship under the IMMAF banner will further strengthen the development of MMA in our country.
“Georgia is ready to host the championship at the highest level. With our renowned hospitality, we are confident that the 2025 World Championship will be one of the most memorable and outstanding events yet. We warmly welcome you all!”
Among the athletes expected to represent Georgia are reigning European Senior Lightweight Champion Ramazan Malakoevi, as well as returning IMMAF standouts Koba Tchumburidze and Beka Shainidze.
