A ROYAL FOLLOWING: MIXED MARTIAL ARTS IN MOROCCO

“There is another side to Captain Morocco beyond the eight-sided martial arts ring.”

When the Royal Moroccan Federation of Mixed Martial Arts (FRMSCLM) became the first official MMA organization in Morocco, the futureof sports in Africa became even more exciting. Supported by the country’s king and its sports ministry, and promoted by high-profile sports figures, MMA activities are opening doors for Morocco’s youth, sports fans and entrepreneurs. The world’s governing body for the sportof MMA, IMMAF – WMMAA (International Mixed Martial Arts Federation and World MMA Association) is expanding globally. Morocco joined its ranks in 2019. “The addition ofMorocco to our membership will surely bring an energetic boost to grass roots sport development in Africa, which is an area of focus for us,” said IMMAF President Kerrith Brown when Morocco’s membership was announced. Motivating youth to take up MMA and to engage in sports are the main goals of FRMSCLM. “We want to contribute to Morocco and its people through MMA,” said FRMSCLM President El Harchali. “We plan to open new MMA gyms throughout the country and roll out education and training programs for coaches. Furthermore, we want to organize MMA events in Morocco, which will have a positive effect on the development of the sport in Africa.” “Captain Morocco” Seeks Wins Beyond the Octagon MMA’s fan base has grown, attracted by Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) TV and liveevents. “Martial arts are already very popular in Morocco, as many Moroccans living outside the country fight under the Moroccan flag,” says the professional middleweight fighter and entrepreneur Abu Azaitar. “The foundation of the MMA Federation in Morocco, with its state-of-the-art training and educational facilities, will enable us to increase the sport’s popularity and its accessibility to the people.” Azaitar and his brothers – his twin Omar, and fellow MMA fighter Ottman – have found an ardent supporter in Morocco’s monarch. “I had the honor of meeting King Mohammed VI,” Abu says. “He is an exceptional role model to us all. He is an accomplished sportsman and a dedicated supporter of sports.” Known as “Captain Morocco” to fans, Azaitar is using his high profile in the MMA world to draw attention to other issues in Morocco. He is passionate about creating opportunities for others. There is another side to Abu Azaitar beyond the eight-sided martial arts ring. “My activities are not confined to sports alone,” he says. “I would like to be known as the fighter with heart, committed to helping and improving the situation of the less fortunate in Morocco. I am actively involved in several charities which focus on improving the quality of life of children and people with disabilities.” “We have a responsibility to care for our loved ones, our village and the community as a whole,” Azaitar adds. “Yes, the future hold promise for sports in Morocco. The outlook becomes even brighterwhenwe useour fighting spirit to put smiles on the faces of every Moroccan.”