Post by : Mina Rahman
In a historic announcement, the World Association of Kickboxing Organisations (WAKO) and the UAE Muaythai and Kickboxing Federation (UAEMKFED) confirmed that Abu Dhabi will host the World Kickboxing Championship for Seniors and Masters.
This prestigious event is set to take place at the ADNEC Arena from November 21 to 30, 2025, marking the first occasion this championship will occur outside of Europe. It establishes Abu Dhabi as an international center for martial arts and a prime destination for elite kickboxing athletes.
Featuring more than 2,000 competitors from 150 nations, this will be the most extensive and inclusive kickboxing championship to date. Competitions will occur in both Tatami and Ring formats, including Masters and Para-Kickboxing divisions, displaying a wide array of skills and talent.
The nine-day event will feature daily qualification rounds, semi-finals, and finals, culminating in the Grand Finals and Awarding Ceremonies on November 28 and 29, with final delegation departures on November 30.
The Opening Ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, November 23, 2025, at 17:00 at the ADNEC Arena, welcoming international delegations and dignitaries while highlighting the UAE's commitment to promoting combat sports on the global stage.
The championship is poised to deliver a blend of cultural exhibitions, entertainment, and martial arts displays, promising an impressive spectacle for both participants and viewers.
Athletes will compete in various disciplines, with both Tatami (point-based) and Ring (full-contact) events allowing a platform for competitors of different backgrounds to demonstrate their skills.
The inclusion of Masters and Para-Kickboxing divisions underscores the event's dedication to celebrating athletes of all ages and abilities, reinforcing values of fairness and sportsmanship.
Ali Khouri, Board Member of UAEMKFED and Executive Board Member of WAKO, commented on the significance of the championship for Abu Dhabi and the UAE. He expressed that, “Hosting the World Kickboxing Championship in Abu Dhabi signifies a pivotal achievement in our nation’s ability to host world-class sporting events. This occasion will be a landmark in the chronicles of kickboxing.”
Furthermore, Khouri noted that the event mirrors the UAE's commitment to fostering peace, unity, and cultural understanding through sports, while showcasing Abu Dhabi's potential as a premier host city.
The upcoming 2025 championship is set to enhance Abu Dhabi’s stature as a leading venue for international martial arts events. By uniting athletes from 150 countries, the event champions friendship, cultural exchange, and professional growth in kickboxing.
Participants and spectators can anticipate an exceptional sporting event that emphasizes both top-level competition and the UAE’s dedication to innovation and excellence in hosting.
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