Now that UFC 112 is in the record books, Abu Dhabi isn’t exactly putting Mixed-Martial Arts on hold while they wait for the next major UFC event to pass through town.

In fact, the ADFC is forging ahead by returning MMA to its illustrious roots by hosting an open-weight, televised, and recurring Mixed-Martial Arts Grand Prix event.

Did you catch that, fight fans?

“Open Weight!!”

The concept is simple: Fighters will clash in the open-weight “Battle of the Champions” to decide who will be the world’s greatest pound-for-pound, winner-take-all, champion.

Eight International Mixed-Martial Artists (you may recognize such names as Sokoudjou Nkamhoua and Jeff Monson) are competing in the championship for the One Million Dirham Grand Prize ($272,249 USD) and the title of ADFC Champion.

The championship will take place over three events, the first of which is scheduled to start on May 14th, 2010.

Additionally, great emphasis is also being placed on local talent, as the ADFC will attempt to showcase the fighters from the UAE and Gulf Region. As such, side fights placing local talent against international fighters will accompany the Grand Prix.

ADFC will become a platform for 12 local fighters to exhibit their skills and talent and to propel them into the international spotlight.


Coach’s Take:

I absolutely love this tournament concept. It obviously reminds me a lot of the early days of the UFC, but with modern day MMA rules and regulations (sorry kids, no fish-hooking).

I especially love the organization’s business philosophy and mission statement:

“Mixed Martial Arts is about discipline, skill, agility and most importantly, mental strength. These factors make this sport more than just mindless fighting and brawling. It is about training, physical education, and perseverance, all of which are advantageous qualities for the youth of today.

“This is why we want to introduce this sport to them as a way to channel their energy, while training their bodies and minds. We are promoting a healthy lifestyle to the region, which is about education and commitment.”

Awesome!

I couldn’t have said it better myself.

As far as future tournaments go, expect to see many more of the world’s best fighters, battling for the honour of the best pound-for-pound champion.

What?

No mindless fighting and brawling?

Sorry Kimbo...I guess you need not apply.