Twin sisters dominate as Rashid, Aurangzeb star at PAKMMAF ACTIVIT Contender Series

• Dominant performances of MMA athletes strengthen Pakistan's road to the IMMAF World Championships

 LAHORE: The Pakistan Mixed Martial Arts Federation (PAKMMAF) successfully staged the inaugural PAKMMAF ACTIVIT Contender Series at Fight HQ in Lahore, bringing together many of the country's finest mixed martial artists for an action-packed event featuring 12 elite contests.

Designed to bridge the gap between domestic competition and the international stage, the Contender Series showcased Pakistan's emerging talent as athletes continued their preparations for upcoming IMMAF World Championship campaigns. The event was headlined by outstanding victories from twin sisters Maliha Ali and Manesha Ali, rising youth sensation Aurangzeb Ahmed, and former national wrestling champion Rashid Gujjar.

The standout performance of the evening came from former National MMA Champion Manesha Ali, who earned both a dominant unanimous decision victory over Karachi's Imama and the prestigious Fight of the Night award. Representing Brave Gym and hailing from Hunza, the accomplished international competitor controlled every aspect of the contest across all three rounds, demonstrating the composure, technical ability and championship pedigree that have established her as one of Pakistan's leading female mixed martial artists.

Her twin sister, Maliha Ali, also delivered an impressive performance to maintain the family's perfect night. The Hunza-born Brave Gym athlete defeated Quetta's Sadia despite conceding approximately five kilograms in weight to her opponent. A Wushu champion and national kickboxing gold medallist, Maliha displayed exceptional skill, determination and resilience throughout the contest, underlining her credentials as one of Pakistan's most promising international prospects.

Former national wrestling champion Rashid Gujjar enjoyed a memorable victory by defeating Qurban Khan in a highly anticipated rematch. The result carried added significance as Gujjar avenged his defeat to Khan in the National Championship final, highlighting his rapid evolution since transitioning from wrestling to mixed martial arts and further strengthening his credentials ahead of upcoming international competition.

Among the evening's most exciting moments was an emphatic knockout victory by Aurangzeb Ahmed, widely regarded as one of Pakistan's brightest young MMA talents. His explosive performance served as another reminder of his immense potential as he prepares to represent Pakistan at the IMMAF Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi this August.

The victories represent significant milestones in Pakistan's international MMA ambitions. Maliha Ali, Manesha Ali and Rashid Gujjar will now intensify their preparations for the IMMAF World Championships in Georgia this November, while Aurangzeb Ahmed turns his attention to the IMMAF Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi. The PAKMMAF ACTIVIT Contender Series has been established to provide athletes with consistent, high-level competition that mirrors the demands of international events, while also creating a pathway towards opportunities with leading professional MMA organisations.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, who attended the event as chief guest, praised the federation's efforts in promoting mixed martial arts among Pakistan's youth. She said the rapid growth of MMA is creating positive role models for young people while encouraging healthier lifestyles and stronger communities. She noted that participation in sport helps keep young people away from drugs, crime and other negative influences, contributes to improved mental health, reduces excessive screen time and instils discipline, resilience and strong character. She commended the Pakistan MMA Federation for creating opportunities that empower young athletes to pursue their dreams through sport.

PAKMMAF President Omar Ahmed said the federation's vision extends far beyond winning medals on the international stage. "Success isn't measured solely by medals. Success is building a complete athlete development pathway that creates sustainable opportunities for every aspiring mixed martial artist in Pakistan. Our pathway begins in schools and colleges, progresses through White Collar MMA, the Contender Series and the Pakistan Open before preparing athletes for IMMAF World Championships and ultimately professional organisations. We are building world champions while creating opportunities for Pakistani athletes to sign with leading international promotions such as BRAVE CF, UAE Warriors and ACA. Pakistan MMA is building a complete ecosystem for the sport, not simply organising events."

Ahmed also acknowledged the federation's partners for their continued commitment to the growth of mixed martial arts in Pakistan. "A special thank you to ACTIVIT and Rd. Rizwan Aftab Ahmed for once again believing in Pakistani MMA. Their continued support allows our athletes to compete internationally and proudly raise the Pakistan flag on the world stage."