By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Nigeria Mixed Martial Arts Federation (NMMAF) has concluded arrangements for the second edition of the Sunday Dare Open National Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Championship, scheduled to hold in Bayelsa State from October 14 to 18, 2026.
The five-day championship, organised by the NMMAF in collaboration with the Bayelsa State Sports Council, is expected to attract Mixed Martial Artists, coaches, technical officials and other stakeholders from across the country.
Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development and Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Chief Sunday Dare, after whom the championship is named, is among the notable personalities expected at the event.
Also expected are the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, and the state Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Daniel Igali.
Dare’s presence is expected to provide inspiration to participating athletes, particularly young fighters seeking to build careers in Mixed Martial Arts.
As host governor, Diri is expected to welcome athletes and officials from across Nigeria, while the Bayelsa State Sports Council is collaborating with the federation to ensure a successful championship.
Igali, an accomplished athlete and sports administrator, is also expected to play a key role in the hosting of the competition.
The championship will feature athletes competing across various weight categories, with participants drawn from different parts of the country.
Beyond the pursuit of medals and individual honours, the competition is expected to provide opportunities for talent identification and development, while increasing the visibility and popularity of Mixed Martial Arts in Nigeria.
The NMMAF said the 2026 edition is expected to feature improved organization, quality technical officiating and highly competitive bouts as part of its efforts to strengthen domestic competitions and develop athletes in the sport.
The championship will consequently provide another platform for athletes, coaches, officials and other stakeholders to advance the development of Mixed Martial Arts in Nigeria.
