Iraq debuts ‘Fist Strike’: a new combat sport unveiled in Baghdad Championship

BAGHDAD — The Asif Martial Arts Academy in the Arasat area of Karrada, central Baghdad, hosted Iraq’s first-ever “Fist Strike” championship. The event, which brought together 150 male and female martial artists from 10 Iraqi cities, introduced a brand-new combat sport developed in Iraq this year. Participants competed across various weight categories, ranging from 35kg to open weight, with 15 referees overseeing the matches.

This sport was invented by The Asif Martial Arts Academy in collaboration with several trainers from multiple martial arts disciplines and under the coordination of the Iraqi National Mixed Martial Arts Federation. The game blends techniques from diverse martial arts styles, including Taekwondo, Kyokushin, boxing, Jiu-Jitsu, and Muay Thai.

The sport involves two opponents standing face-to-face in designated squares, striking each other’s abdominal area using clenched fists. A competitor loses the match if they are forced out of their square by a strike. Matches consist of three rounds, and if neither opponent withdraws, rounds continue until a winner is determined.

Coach Asif Mohammed, one of the tournament organizers, told 964media: “The Fist Strike Championship is a global first, designed to bring together skills from different martial arts styles. It’s an entirely Iraqi invention, showcasing our creativity and passion for martial arts.”

He added: “Over 150 participants from cities including Baghdad, Sulaymaniyah, Najaf, Salah al-Din, Kirkuk, Fallujah, and Samarra joined the championship, with 15 referees ensuring fair play. This sport tests a competitor’s resilience, strength, and endurance, and the enthusiasm from players has been incredible. We plan to expand these tournaments to all Iraqi provinces and eventually take them international.”

Participant Hussein Jubeir, representing Fallujah Club, highlighted the sport’s demands: “Each match consists of three rounds, and a competitor can withdraw at any point if they feel unable to continue.”

Meanwhile, Jumana Ghazwan, representing Diwan Club, shared her excitement about the tournament: “I’m a Kyokushin fighter who previously secured second place in Iraq. Today, I competed in the Fist Strike Championship with hopes of earning new titles. Events like these not only enhance endurance but also improve self-defense skills. We hope such tournaments continue and expand further.”