The IMMAF stands by its decision. The International MMA Federation has published a press release following the creation of FIMMAThe chairman of the body, Kerrith Brown, points out that the IMMAF has 132 national member federations, built " the world's largest youth and amateur development system "A anti-doping program compliant with WADA standardsand that it organizes annual World and Continental Championships sometimes bringing together more than 1.000 athletes.
Results that make IMMAF " the only federation that carries weight in the MMA world According to Bertrand Assoumou, member of the IMMAF board. These are thirteen years of concrete work accomplished by athletes, coaches, officials and national federations who have placed their trust in IMMAF to develop this sport in the right wayKerrith Brown points out. Recent announcements made by newly created organizations do not change these facts. Mixed martial arts cannot be reinvented at a press conferenceThey cannot be redefined on a silver platter to suit political expediency. And they cannot circumvent the governance framework established by SportAccord, GAISF, and the Olympic Movement. »
« True international recognition is achieved through years of measurable participation by athletes, a transparent governance, proven anti-doping compliance, legitimate national federations, the respect for the authentic identity of sport " Brown adds. The MMA community knows who has done the real work over the last decade " concludes the president of IMMAF, not ready to be walked all over.
