The Ghana Mixed Martial Arts Association has appealed for support from the media and corporate Ghana to help develop the sport and improve the country’s competitiveness on the international stage.
The appeal was made on Thursday during a meeting with sports journalists at the Ghana Olympic Committee Conference Room, where the association outlined its current activities and future plans.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to introduce Ghana’s team that recently returned from the 2026 African Championship in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, with two medals.
Gabby Fenuku won gold, while Janet Acquah secured bronze at the competition.
Association president Jeff Taylor, who was elected vice-president of the continental governing body during the championship, praised the athletes and technical staff for their performances despite receiving no financial support to represent Ghana.
He said the country had talented fighters capable of achieving greater success if they received adequate backing.
Taylor also expressed hope that mixed martial arts (MMA) would eventually be included in the Olympic Games, arguing that the sport offered significant opportunities for athletes.
“It is an attractive sport, not dangerous and can rake in money for the fighters. We need more fighters to come on board. Boxers, judokas, kickboxers and other combat sports practitioners are welcome,” he said.
The association president identified the lack of a dedicated training facility and logistical support as major challenges facing the national team.
He called for a facility at the Accra Sports Stadium where fighters could train regularly, adding that improved resources would help motivate athletes and prepare them for international competitions.
Taylor also announced that the World Championship would be held in Turkey in December, expressing hope that Ghana would be able to participate.
He paid tribute to Derrick Macaire, a Ghanaian technical instructor and referee recognised internationally for his work in developing MMA across the African continent.
Macaire, he said, had been instrumental in sharing technical knowledge and expertise with practitioners in several African countries.
Taylor urged the media and corporate organisations to support the association’s efforts to expand the sport and create more opportunities for Ghanaian fighters.
Coaches Samuel Nii Tackie and Torado Bruce echoed the call, insisting that Ghana had the talent to compete at a higher level but needed improved technical training, motivation and institutional support to fulfil its potential.
The association hopes stronger partnerships with businesses, the media and other stakeholders will help build a sustainable pathway for MMA development in Ghana and increase the country’s representation at major international competitions.
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