In significant news on the amateur side of the sport, the Swedish Mixed Martial Arts Federation (SMMAF) has left IMMAF and confirmed that it has joined the Global Association of Mixed Martial Arts (GAMMA).
The news follows the news of SMMAF’s withdrawal from IMMAF, citing an untenable situation following the organisation’s threat of sanctions after a Swedish referee officiated a GAMMA event earlier in the year.
SMMAF stated its position that, according to Swedish law, they cannot prevent anyone from practicing their profession, and stated that an official, unlike an athlete or national team members, does not represent a country.
A statement from SMMAF at the time stated that it “has been concerned about the negative development within IMMAF for a long time. The board has now concluded that the situation is no longer tenable.”
It also stated that, “On top of the previously evident issues with democracy and transparency, as well as unresolved safeguarding issues within IMMAF, the SMMAF board has now had enough and has decided to terminate all cooperation with immediate effect.”
SMMAF subsequently left IMMAF and, after an Extra Annual Meeting on June 7, decided to leave IMMAF and apply to join GAMMA.
A press release from GAMMA confirmed the news, staying that the GAMMA board approved Sweden’s inclusion in the organisation on Thursday last week.
“It has been confirmed that the Swedish Mixed Martial Arts Federation (SMMAF) has become a Member of the Global Association of Mixed Martial Arts (GAMMA), following approval by the GAMMA board on Thursday,” the statement began.
“Founded in March 2007, the SMMAF is one of Europe’s oldest national federations for mixed martial arts. It is mandated by its government to regulate and sanction both amateur and professional MMA in Sweden. Its President August Wallen stands as an original founder of the international amateur MMA movement.”
SMMAF president Wallen explained the reasons for joining GAMMA, saying, “We are looking forward to being with GAMMA, as an athlete-centred organisation which reflects the priorities of the SMMAF,” he said in a statement.
“As an organisation seeking the best competition opportunities and conditions for all, the SMMAF is impressed by the level of support provided by GAMMA and is looking forward to sending a large team to the GAMMA World Championships in Indonesia in December.
“I am confident that becoming a member will be beneficial for our entire Swedish community.”
The SMMAF becomes the 76th Member of GAMMA, joining 21 European Members. Renowned for a successful national team that has accrued international medals and produced top tier athletes, the SMMAF will surely contribute to the competitiveness of GAMMA’s European and World tournaments.
Commenting on the Membership of SMMAF, GAMMA President Alexander Engelhardt said, “We are always pleased when we welcome new Members into our GAMMA community, particularly those that recognise our ambition and values.
“With the history of the SMMAF, this is particularly significant, and we thank August and the entire SMMAF for their trust. We look forward to having their athletes compete in our World Championships at the end of the year.”
