The Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Federation (GMMAF) will be unable to compete at the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) World Championship in Belgrade, Serbia this month after one of its athletes tested positive for the COVID-19 virusduring the preparatory phase.
This was disclosed by a press release from the association.
“The GYMMAF, regrettably, will be unable to participate at the World Championships, due to some administrative challenges, along with a member of the competing delegation being tested positive for COVID-19, despite having followed all necessary protocols,” the federation stated in the release.
The team had been in preparation for eight weeks for the championships which is already underway and ends February 19th. “In light of the nature of combat sports, the other nominees for participation would have also been exposed, thus providing the possibility of medical and performance risks at the tournament. As a result of risk mitigation, due to considerations of timing, logistics, and climate adaptation, the GYMAAF, in consideration of the safety of its athletes, as well as the reputation of the tournament, has decided to postpone its participation at this event, and focus on preparations for PanAm Championships and hosting our first regional championships.”
The release also stated that the association remains committed to the development of the discipline locally. President of the GMMAF Gavin Singh revealed that information has already been circulated to the IMMAF on the unfortunate episode.
This would have been the entity’s third competitive venture on the international circuit following their participation at the World Championship in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the Pan American Championship in Mexico.
