Bayelsa State Claims Victory at National MMA Championship

Bayelsa State emerged as champions of the 2nd Sunday Dare National Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Open Championship held in Yenagoa, topping the medals table with a total of 15 medals, which included eight gold, three silver, and four bronze. Delta State finished in second place with 12 medals, comprising five gold, four silver, and three bronze.

Enugu State also placed third with 12 medals, which included three gold, six silver, and three bronze. The championship featured participation from 27 states and over 200 athletes, serving as a qualifier for the 23rd National Sports Festival scheduled to take place in Enugu State from November 27 to December 11, 2026.

During the closing ceremony, Bayelsa's Deputy Governor, Dr. Peter Akpe, expressed satisfaction with the growth of MMA in the state and commended the efforts of the Nigeria Mixed Martial Arts Federation's President, Ambassador Henry George, and Grand Patron, Chief Sunday Dare, for their roles in promoting the sport's inclusion in the National Sports Festival.