KP Adviser for Sports and Youth Affairs Taj Muhammad Khan Tarand Inaugurates Event
Hamayun Khan
PESHAWAR: The International Mixed Martial Arts Championship commenced at the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) Hall, Peshawar Sports Complex, featuring thrilling contests between athletes from Pakistan and Afghanistan. A number of national and international fighters from both countries are participating in the event.
The championship was formally inaugurated by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Adviser for Sports and Youth Affairs, Taj Muhammad Khan Tarand, who welcomed the visiting Afghan athletes by presenting them with traditional Chitrali caps. Among those present on the occasion were Director General Sports Tashfeen Haider, Assistant Director Accounts Shah Faisal, President of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Jiu-Jitsu Association Tahseen Ullah, President of KP Mixed Martial Arts Association Salahuddin Kamal, General Secretary Aali Gul Afridi, Organizing Secretary Nauman, Humayun Khan, Deputy Director Shakoor Khan, Administrator Yousaf Afridi, and other distinguished guests.
Addressing the ceremony, Taj Muhammad Khan Tarand said it was encouraging to see athletes from the brotherly Islamic country of Afghanistan participating in the championship. He expressed hope that similar sporting exchanges between the two neighboring countries would continue in the future, providing young athletes with opportunities to showcase their talent and gain valuable international experience.
He noted that both male and female athletes are competing in the championship, which reflects the growing development of sports in the region. He urged players to work hard and strive for excellence in order to bring pride to their country and nation. He reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to supporting athletes and promoting sports at all levels.
Tarand further stated that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has always been a fertile ground for sporting talent and that athletes from the province have consistently represented Pakistan with distinction at national and international events.
Speaking to journalists, KP Mixed Martial Arts Association President Salahuddin Kamal and General Secretary Aali Gul Afridi said that the primary objective of organizing the championship is to prepare athletes for future international competitions, including the Asian Games. They emphasized that Pakistan possesses immense sporting talent, and competing against international-level fighters will help local athletes improve their skills and performance.
They added that the bouts are being supervised by internationally licensed referees Dilawar Khan Sinan and Abu Huraira to ensure adherence to international standards.
Afghan athletes Najibullah, Khabir Dilawar, and Zakir Khan thanked the organizers for their warm hospitality and excellent arrangements. They expressed confidence that the championship would feature exciting and competitive contests, as athletes from both countries have arrived fully prepared for the event.
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