Mixed martial arts is a sport that has been sweeping the globe. However, the popularity of the sport didn't take off as rapidly in Egypt. That is, until now. Dr. Ayman Kandeel recently discussed the vibrant future of MMA in Egypt.
MMA is a fighting sport that combines wrestling, jiu jitsu, muay thai, boxing, karate, and more. It is growing in popularity worldwide and has recently begun growing at more rapid rates in Egypt.
To take advantage of this explosion in popularity, Dr. Ayman Kandeel recently established a company with initial startup funding of $60 million for the sole purpose of investing in Egypt’s burgeoning MMA sector.
"The first MMA tournament in Egypt was held in 2019, and we're looking forward to seeing many more in the coming years," Dr. Ayman Kandeel said. "We only saw a drop in tournament scheduling due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but this is coming around now too."
The MMA organization in Egypt currently welcomes professional fighters, amateurs, gym clubs, and teams to compete for championships in the organization's major fight nights. Financial rewards are given to those who win, and those who win the most matches will advance to the top of the organization.
"Cairo is a major hub for MMA in Egypt, and I'm excited to be a part of it," Dr. Ayman Kandeel says. "Our gyms are producing world-renowned fighters, and we can only expect the sport to continue growing here in Cairo and across the entire country."
Captain Mohamed Abdel Hameed is known for bringing MMA's popularity to Egypt and starting the country's famed Top Team. He has served as a mentor to countless fighters and aspiring fighters, including Egypt's first female MMA fighter, Aya Saeid.
Dr. Ayman Kandeel explained that Abdel Hameed and Saeid have been bringing much fame to the country's Top Team, helping the team gain publicity around the country and the globe.
"Kids are getting into MMA, and they want to be a part of the Top Team," Kandeel said. "The more boys and girls who get into the sport now, the more quickly the sport will grow."
Dr. Ayman Kandeel explained that he sees a bright future for the sport of MMA -- a sport that was just gaining extreme popularity before the COVID-19 pandemic took hold. With the spread of the pandemic slowing, the sport is expected to take off faster than ever before.
