Trần Quang Lộc (right) is one of the leading MMA athletes in Việt Nam. Photo zing.vn

HÀ NỘI — The Việt Nam Mixed Martial Arts Federation (VMMAF) has been officially established, marking a historic point for the sport in the country.

The federation’s first congress with the participation of more than 100 delegates was held in Hà Nội on Saturday.

Ngô Đức Quỳnh, chairman of the Member's Council of East Sea Shipping Services Limited Company, has been voted the President who will be assisted by four vice presidents.

In Việt Nam, MMA has been developed for several years. According to statistics, there are more than 40 clubs running in the country such as Dragon MMA Hà Nội and Saigon Sport Club with the participation of up to 5,000 athletes.

There are also many overseas Vietnamese practicing MMA all over the world.

President Quỳnh said the federation will mobilise support from all social organisations, enterprises and individuals to push the development of the sport. It is partly to improve people’s health and lift Việt Nam’s MMA in the region and the world.

At the congress, delegates agreed that in the first five-year period from 2020 to 2025, the federation will focus on strengthening its organisation, building up personnel  setting up centres for training and competition, as well as hosting local and international events. VNS