Oru Leonard 

The Nigeria Mixed Martial Arts Federation (NMMAF), has announced plans for the second edition of the Sunday Dare Open National MMA Championship, scheduled to hold in Bayelsa State from October 14 to 18, 2026.

The five-day championship is being organised by the NMMAF in collaboration with the Bayelsa State Sports Council, with the state serving as host to athletes, 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 expected to attend the event.

Also expected are the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, and the state Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Daniel Igali.

Dare’s presence is expected to add further prominence to the championship and provide inspiration to young athletes participating in the competition, particularly those seeking to build professional careers in Mixed Martial Arts.

As host governor, Governor Diri is expected to receive athletes and officials arriving from different parts of Nigeria, while the Bayelsa State Sports Council is working closely with the NMMAF to ensure a successful championship.

Igali, an accomplished athlete and sports administrator, is also expected to play a key role in the hosting and development of the competition in Bayelsa.

The championship will feature athletes competing in different weight categories, with participants expected from various parts of the country.

Beyond the battle for medals, the competition is designed to provide opportunities for talent identification, athlete development and exposure, while further promoting the growth and visibility of Mixed Martial Arts in Nigeria.

The NMMAF said the 2026 edition is expected to deliver improved organisation, quality technical officiating and highly competitive bouts as part of its broader efforts to strengthen domestic competitions and develop athletes across the country.

The championship will consequently bring together athletes, coaches, officials and other stakeholders to promote greater participation and advance the development of Mixed Martial Arts in Nigeria.

The Bayelsa event is expected to further position the sport as an emerging platform for youth development, talent discovery and sporting excellence in the country.