Zamzam Al Hammadi, a 17-year-old mixed martial arts (MMA) sensation from the United Arab Emirates, is rapidly ascending the global combat sports scene. Her recent signing with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) MENA marks a significant milestone in her burgeoning career, positioning her as a trailblazer for female athletes in the Middle East.
Early Life and Martial Arts Genesis
Born into a family deeply rooted in martial arts, Zamzam’s journey began at the tender age of 2.5 years under the tutelage of her mother, Nada Al Nuaymi—a black belt in judo and a brown belt in jiu-jitsu. Her siblings, Ghala and Zayed, also share her passion, making the Al Hammadi household a cradle of combat excellence. Khaleej Times+5Gulf News+5ArabsMMA+5Khaleej Times+6pflmena.com+6Gulf News+6
Dominance in Youth Championships
Zamzam’s prowess became evident as she clinched back-to-back gold medals in the IMMAF Youth World Championships. In 2023, she made history by becoming the first Emirati woman to win an IMMAF Youth World Championship, a feat she replicated in 2024 by defeating Xerena Sikes of the USA in the Youth A 52.2 kg division. Her journey to the finals showcased her versatility, with victories via armbar submission and unanimous decisions.
Amateur MMA Fight Record
Zamzam’s amateur record is a testament to her skill and determination. She has competed in various prestigious tournaments, showcasing her prowess in both striking and grappling.Arab News
IMMAF – 2024 Youth World Championships:
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Win vs. Xerena Sikes – Decision (Unanimous), Round 3, 2:00
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Win vs. Sara Dembinska – Decision (Unanimous), Round 3, 2:00
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Win vs. Elena Indelicato – Decision (Unanimous), Round 3, 2:00
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Win vs. Taghrid Akkawi – Submission (Armbar), Round 1, 1:32
IMMAF – 2023 Asian Championships:
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Win vs. Angelina Neaymi – Submission (Kimura), Round 1, 0:59
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Win vs. Sarnai Galkhuu – Submission (Armbar), Round 1, 1:07
IMMAF – 2023 Youth World Championships:
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Win vs. Kira Voliashchenko – Decision (Unanimous), Round 1, 4:00
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Win vs. Olivia Babiarz – Submission (Armbar), Round 1, 2:57
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Win vs. Mayra Lemos – Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke), Round 1, 0:47
Her performances in these tournaments have not only earned her gold medals but have also solidified her reputation as a rising star in the MMA community.
Transition to PFL MENA
April 2025 marked a new chapter as Zamzam signed with PFL MENA. Expressing her enthusiasm, she stated, “I’m happy to represent my country on a global stage like the PFL and Inshallah, God will help me to achieve all my dreams.” While maintaining her amateur status, she is set to compete in showcase bouts within the PFL SmartCage, gaining invaluable experience in a professional setting.
Training Regimen and Academic Balance
Balancing rigorous training with academics, Zamzam adheres to a disciplined schedule, training up to 10 hours daily. Her regimen includes sessions in MMA, jiu-jitsu, cardio, and strength conditioning. Despite the demanding routine, she excels academically, aspiring to pursue political science, mirroring her mother’s educational path.
A Beacon for Female Athletes
Zamzam’s achievements resonate beyond personal accolades; they symbolize the rising prominence of female athletes in the Middle East. Her success, alongside her sister Ghala’s, underscores a transformative era in regional sports, inspiring a new generation of Emirati women to pursue excellence in combat sports.Aletihad Newspaper+8Gulf News+8Gulf Today+8Gulf Today+7IMMAF+7Khaleej Times+7
Future Aspirations
With a foundation built on discipline, familial support, and an unyielding spirit, Zamzam Al Hammadi is poised for continued success. Her journey reflects the potential of structured athlete development pathways and the impact of cultural support in nurturing world-class tale
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