Manama, Oct. 23 (BNA): Bahrain’s mixed martial arts (MMA) athletes delivered strong performances at the 3rd Asian Youth Games, with four fighters advancing to the next rounds.

Sultanakhmed reached the 65kg semifinals after winning over the Philippines’ Lucho Andres and will face Indonesia’s Gibran Alfarizi in today’s bout for a place in the final.

Abdulakim Babaev advanced to the quarterfinals after defeating Iran’s Amirali in the same weight category, while Ibragim Khalidov qualified for the 70kg semifinals following an impressive win.

In the 60kg division, Eldarov Eldar achieved a notable victory over Uzbekistan’s Behruz Rustamov, emphasising Bahrain’s strong presence in the sport.

Meanwhile, Saood Salman exited the 50kg competition after losing to Tajikistan’s Umar Sharifov.

Babaev’s qualification gives Bahrain an additional presence in the 65kg semifinals, marking another success for the national team in the tournament.

M.A.