Mixed martial arts come to Southeast Asia

Mixed martial arts fans across the world like to quickly identify Asia -- more specifically, Southeast Asia -- as a potential hotbed for this developing sport. It is not difficult to see why.

Thailand’s muay Thai remains one of the crucial striking styles in MMA and it is just one of the numerous traditional martial arts in the region. After all, UFC was one decision away from holding an event in the Philippines a couple of years ago.

While the Philippines and Thailand get mentioned a lot in this context, Indonesia gets nary a thought. Not only is Indonesia the most populous nation and the biggest economy in the region, it also has the longest history of actual mixed martial arts, though that history has been tumultuous to say the least.

Source: Sherdog

Photo source

Nepal to organize martial arts games for gays

In a first event of its kind in South Asia, and probably Asia, Nepal is set to organise the country’s first national games for gays, lesbians, bisexuals and third-gendered citizens.

The games to be held in September this year over a two-week period will witness LGBT sportspersons competing in sports ranging from volleyball, football, athletics, martial arts, tennis and more.

Source: Hindustan Times

Photo source

Great Grandmaster Dr. Ronald Frazier Sr. on Karate

Great Grandmaster Dr. Ronald Frazier Sr. believes that karate is “not only a sport, but it teaches valuable life skills that build confidence, self-control and respect for yourself and others."

Source: Savannah Now

Image source

The 2017 Asian Martial Arts Games

The Host City Contract Signing Ceremony for the 2nd Asian Indoor - Martial Arts Games 2017 was held today at the Regency Hotel in Kuwait City in 2010. OCA President Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah and Turkmenistan Deputy Prime Minister Deryageldi Orazov together with Ashgabat Mayor Shamuhamet Durdiliyev signed on the host city contract for the 2nd Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games 2017 in Ashgabat, the Capital City of Turkmenistan.

OCA President Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah expressed his delight in the signing ceremony, “It’s our great honour to receive His Excellency in Kuwait City and we are happy to sign the host city contract with Turkmenistan and Ashgabat city”, he said.

“OCA recognise the efforts made by Turkmenistan and the city of Ashgabat, we are looking forward to hosting our 2nd Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games for the first time in central Asia region”, Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahah Al-Sabah added.

Turkmenistan, which officially declared independence on 27 October 1991 and gained official recognition in December 25, 1991, will be the first central Asian countries to host Asian Indoor and Martial Art Games.

His Excellency Deryageldi Orazov has confidence that Turkmenistan will be capable of hosting its first Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in 2017.

“I’m very happy to be here today to sign the host city contract with OCA. Turkmenistan government invests 2 billion USD for the first phase of venue construction, and another 5 billion USD will be spent for the second phase of all kinds of construction. ”

“Under OCA’s support and guidance, Turkmenistan is looking forward to cooperating closely  with OCA for a success games in Ashgabat.” 

Source: Olympic Council of Asia

Photo source

Welcome to the Asian Martial Arts Games portal!

This blog will bring you all the news about the 2013 Asian Martial Arts Games which will be held in Incheon, South Korea between June 29 - July 6.

The event will take place at the same time with the Asian Indoor Games and is thus known as the 1st Asian Indoor-Martial Arts Games. The event is held every four years.

Photo source