For the first time, Tajikistan has won gold medals at the Asian Games—an achievement secured during the debut of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) at the 3rd Asian Games held in Manama, Bahrain.
From October 22 to 31, 2025, the city of Manama hosted the third edition of the Asian Games, bringing together top athletes from across the continent. This year marked the first time MMA was included in the official competition program, with bouts held from October 23 to 25.
Tajikistan’s national MMA team delivered a historic performance, earning two gold medals—its first ever at the Asian Games—and securing fourth place overall among 20 participating nations in the MMA category.
The standout champions were:
· Umarjon Umed (70 kg) – secured Tajikistan’s first-ever gold medal in Asian Games MMA history.
· Faiziddin Khalilov (55 kg) – added a second gold, solidifying the team’s position in the rankings.
In total, Tajikistan won 9 out of 11 possible medals, making it one of the most successful teams in the competition.
Bronze medalists included:
· Sharifov Umar (50 kg)
· Saidzoda Muhammad (60 kg)
· Bahromov Abubakr (75 kg)
· Qalandarbekova Mehrona (55 kg)
· Begmurodzoda Osim (60 kg)
· Ibrohimzoda Muso (80 kg)
· Boboyeva Marhabo (60 kg)
Tajikistan’s performance was hailed as one of the tournament’s most remarkable debuts, surpassing more experienced teams and signaling the country’s rapid rise in the Asian MMA scene. The team finished behind Iran, Bahrain, and Kazakhstan, but ahead of many seasoned competitors.
This breakthrough is not just a sporting milestone, but a testament to the growth, unity, and professionalism of Tajik athletes. Until now, Tajikistan had never secured a gold medal at the Asian Games—2025 marked a turning point under the MMA banner.
The national MMA federation, led by Davron Jurayev, who also serves as president of the Asian MMA Federation (AMMAF), has been instrumental in building infrastructure, hosting domestic and international competitions, and establishing a structured training system for athletes and coaches.
Through strategic planning, youth development, and international cooperation, Tajikistan has elevated its profile in global MMA. The federation now aims to expand its participation in international tournaments and continue strengthening its national programs.
With two golds, nine total medals, and a top-four finish, Tajikistan has officially written a new chapter in the history of the Asian Games.
