THE first Asian Mixed Martial Arts Manila Open hosted by the newly-formed Nasyonal Mixed Martial Arts Pederasyon ng Pilipinas (NMMAPP) will be held on Oct. 14-16 at the Grand ballroom of the Marriott.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, the NMMAPP president, along with secretary-general Alvin Aguilar, announced the 11-division weight class competitions supported by 9 Dynasty in a press conference at the Marriott yesterday.

“This is a good opportunity for all MMA fighters to show their fighting skills not only in some other fight promotions, but this is also a great avenue for them to fight for their flag and country in the Southeast Asian Games and Asian Games,” Tolentino said.

“Our Filipino fighters are known for their fighting skills and courage. I believe they will excel in this first Asian Open,” Tolentino added. “But every country here in Asia is competitive and strong because all of them have a strong MMA background.”