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| (Image Source: Bahrain News Agency/BRAVE Combat Federation) |
BRAVE Combat Federation, founded by His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa on September 23, 2016, recently celebrated its eighth year anniversary. BRAVE CF is the first sports media startup organization from Bahrain that has globalized to 34 countries, and has broken multiple records during these eight years. Outside of becoming the most global mixed martial arts (MMA) organization as the only one to host shows in 34 nations in five continents, BRAVE CF is also the most traveled organization in Europe with 15 European nations hosting shows and the co-leader for most countries traveled in Asia, with 13 while remaining the only global MMA company to hosts shows in Africa. The organization also boasts its impact in the development of sports in Bahrain and became the official partners of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) for the development of amateur MMA.
‘’BRAVE CF has become the backbone for mixed martial arts in the world and Bahrain. Since hosting the first amateur World Championships in 2017 in Bahrain, BRAVE CF created a new brand, the BRAVE International Combat Week, hosting a total of three World Championships, Asian Championships, and also the biggest IP for amateur MMA, the first-ever MMA Super Cup," said BRAVE CF President Mohammed Shahid. The BRAVE International Combat Week (BICW) was exported to the world and was hosted in Serbia, Colombia, and Pakistan, firmly placing Bahrain on the global map. Bahrain MMA Federation Mohammad Qamber explained on the impact of the BICW in the Bahraini MMA scene, "This made a major impact in Bahraini MMA and, due to this, we have been ranked the number one team in the world. Bahrain holds the presidency for Asian MMA Federation and has secured a seat at the board of the global governing body for MMA. We have also developed skilled professionals from the Kingdom of Bahrain in all areas of the sporting industry, such as referees, judges, and operational teams. Today, Bahrain is the official operations team for the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation." BRAVE CF’s 2024 global strategy significantly adds value to its upcoming return to Bahrain by enhancing brand visibility, attracting elite talent, and strengthening Bahrain’s position as an MMA hub. As the organization continues to expand its reach worldwide, the annual Bahrain event remains the cornerstone of its success, drawing global attention and elevating the Kingdom’s status in the MMA world.
BRAVE Combat Federation’s 2024 global strategy includes hosting events across various continents, reinforcing its status as the most global MMA organization. This worldwide expansion yielded results with an expanding fanbase, key business partnerships, introduction of new technology, and significant market share ahead of its flagship event in Bahrain, the birthplace of BRAVE CF. By increasing its global reach, BRAVE CF enhances its brand, attracts top talent, and strengthens the significance of its events in Bahrain, as well as producing top talent in the Kingdom, such as Hamza Kooheji, widely considered as the best Bantamweight fighter in the Middle East, and aptly nicknamed ‘’The Pride of Bahrain’’. BRAVE CF’s global events in 2024 are more than just fights — they are strategic moves to enhance the organization’s brand visibility worldwide. As BRAVE CF stages events in diverse locations such as Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, it captures the attention of a broader audience. This global presence elevates the organization’s reputation, making its Bahrain event a must-watch for MMA fans worldwide. Every international event builds momentum for the Bahrain showcase. The organization has positioned the Bahrain event as the pinnacle of the year’s action. This increased global visibility ensures that the Bahrain event attracts local supporters, international fans, tourists, media, and sponsors, making it a truly global spectacle.
BRAVE CF’s scouting program, on the other hand, is undoubtedly one of the world’s best attracting top talent such as Khamzat Chimaev, Ilia Topuria, Johnny Walker, Luana Pinheiro, Mohammed Mokhaev, and more. BRAVE CF has signed over 800 athletes from over 80 nations. This diverse roster of fighters features the best athletes from around the globe and the global tour serves as a proving ground where fighters earn their place in the spotlight. When these elite fighters converge in Bahrain, it raises the stakes and the quality of the matchups. Fans can expect to see the culmination of the year’s most exciting rivalries and emerging talents, making the Bahrain event the crown jewel of BRAVE CF’s calendar. The presence of top international fighters also increases the event’s appeal to global audiences, further boosting its prestige. Bahrain has been central to BRAVE CF’s identity since its inception. The 2024 global strategy reinforces Bahrain’s position as a major MMA hub by making the annual event in the Kingdom the highlight of the global MMA calendar. Each event hosted abroad builds anticipation for the Bahrain showdown where the year’s best performances and most anticipated fights take place. The success of BRAVE CF’s global strategy ensures that when the organization returns to Bahrain, it brings with it the momentum and excitement generated from events across the world. This not only boosts local interest but also attracts international attention, with fighters, fans, and media descending on Bahrain for the premier event. The Kingdom’s role as a key player in the global MMA scene is solidified, enhancing its reputation and fostering the growth of the sport locally. BRAVE CF are being broadcasted to over 160 countries and 800 million households through its linear and digital broadcast platforms such as YouTube and DAZN among others as well as its own streaming service BRAVECFTV.com, making it the largest sports media property in the Middle East. ‘’BRAVE CF is the face of Bahrain sports economy, contributing directly to the Kingdom’s 2030 vision. Our organization has been at the forefront of digitalization, with some of the newest technologies in sports and media, the first FAST channel for combat sports, and BRAVE TV has become a destination for combat sports content. BRAVE CF today is the most attractive sports investment opportunity in the region, with the organization diversifying into music, movies, merchandising, gyms, and sports media consultation," said Shahid.
BRAVE Combat Federation (BRAVE CF) is indeed making waves in the MMA world while putting Bahraini brands on the global map. Through strategic partnerships and international events, BRAVE CF is showcasing Bahrain’s identity to a worldwide audience. This approach is helping Bahraini brands gain recognition and expand their reach worldwide. Through its international events and strategic partnerships, the organization is giving Bahraini businesses the exposure they need to succeed globally. As BRAVE CF continues to expand its reach, Bahraini brands are set to benefit from increased visibility and recognition, helping them grow and thrive in international markets. BRAVE CF hosting its annual event in the Kingdom of Bahrain is one of the most prestigious events in combat sports in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Bringing athletes from around the world, the event brings global media attention to Bahrain. By featuring Bahraini companies as sponsors and partners, BRAVE CF ensures these brands are seen by international audiences. This exposure is crucial for Bahraini businesses looking to expand beyond local markets. At every event, the BRAVE CF brand is closely associated with Bahrain’s identity. From banners to promotional materials, Bahraini brands get prime visibility. This helps create a strong connection between the sport and the country, making Bahraini brands more recognizable and appealing to global consumers.
BRAVE CF Chief Operating Officer Valeria Lang shared, “BRAVE CF’s global success in taking Bahraini brands is also driven by its strategic partnerships. The organization collaborates with Bahraini businesses, offering them opportunities to reach new markets. These partnerships go beyond just event sponsorships; they involve co-branding, marketing campaigns, and product placements.” Through its global strategy, BRAVE CF is also elevating Bahrain’s image on the international stage. The organization’s success reflects positively on Bahrain, positioning the country as a hub for sports and business innovation. This boosts Bahrain’s reputation and attracts more international interest in the country’s products and services. BRAVE CF’s commitment to promoting Bahraini brands aligns with Bahrain’s broader economic vision. By showcasing the country’s businesses globally, BRAVE CF supports Bahrain’s goal of diversifying its economy and fostering international trade. This strategic approach not only benefits the brands but also contributes to Bahrain’s long-term economic growth. BRAVE Combat Federation is set to host an incredible three events in Europe on October 2024, with a total of four world title fights on the line, as shows in the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain are confirmed. Bahrain will be able to enjoy the world-class event on December 13, 2024 when BRAVE CF returns home with the expected return of Hamza Kooheji leading Team Bahrain.
