#development

UWW, UAE sign MoU to promote Mutaraha

By United World Wrestling Press

CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (May 3) -- United World Wrestling has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE Wrestling Federation with the aim of promoting the development and protection of the traditional Emirati wrestling style known as Mutaraha.

The objective of this agreement is to establish a shared understanding between UWW and the UAE Wrestling Federation in order to facilitate the protection, development, and promotion of the Mutaraha style. As per the agreement, both parties will hold regular meetings to exchange ideas, share knowledge, discuss any issues or challenges, and evaluate progress.

Mutaraha is a traditional form of wrestling that has been passed down through generations in the UAE. This agreement will provide a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage of UAE and promote traditional wrestling styles that have been preserved and practiced for centuries.

The UAE wants to engage the youth in Mutaraha in which the two wrestlers face each other in a circular ring on sand that is approximately six meters in diameter. The objective of the game is to force the opponent to touch the ground with any part of their body other than their feet, without using any striking or kicking techniques.

The agreement will pave the way for the growth and development of wrestling in the UAE and provide opportunities for Emirati wrestlers to showcase their skills at the international level. The UWW is committed to working closely with the UAE Wrestling Federation to support the promotion and growth of Mutaraha style.

Obituary

Saudi history maker Al-Ghamdi passes away in car accident

By United World Wrestling Press

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (March 8) --- It is with great sorrow that United World Wrestling has learned of the passing passes of Abdul Aziz Fahd AL-GHAMDI (SKA), a prominent athlete of the Saudi National Wrestling team, who was killed in a tragic traffic accident.

Al-Ghamdi, at 19, showcased his exceptional talent and unwavering determination on the wrestling mat, winning a gold medal at the 2022 U17 Arab Championships. However, his most remarkable career feat came in 2019 when he clinched a bronze medal at the U15 Asian Championship, becoming Saudi Arabia’s first-ever Asian medalist in wrestling.

His absence will leave a void in the wrestling world—especially in the Saudi wrestling community. United World Wrestling offers its condolences to Abdul Aziz Fahd Al-Ghamdi's family, friends, teammates, and all those whose lives he touched.