The ONE Championship has garnered a significant following of fans in Qatar following the success of the ONE:166 event earlier this year. Young people are inspired to pursue a career in MMA, thanks to the organization’s global reach and impact. Hua Fung Teh, the Co-Founder and President of ONE Championship, shared insights into the organization’s future plans during his recent visit to Qatar for the Qatar Economic Forum. Teh praised Qatar’s role as a business hub that connects investors globally, highlighting the country’s importance in the global economic landscape.
The success of the ONE:166 Qatar event exceeded expectations, drawing in a near-capacity crowd at the Lusail Sports Arena. The event not only captivated local audiences but also garnered extensive global media coverage, showcasing the beauty of Qatar and the talent on display. Teh emphasized the significance of featuring a mix of international and regional talent at the event, which contributed to its success on a global scale.
The ONE Championship is looking to expand its popularity base by exploring talents through events like Road To ONE (RTO), a global recruitment league that hosts martial arts events worldwide. Teh mentioned the possibility of hosting a Road to ONE event in the MENA region, potentially in Qatar. The organization is dedicated to expanding its global outreach and charitable efforts, partnering with Global Citizen to address pressing global issues through its extensive fanbase across Asia.
Teh’s passion for sports has been a driving force behind his involvement in the sports industry, from playing basketball and taekwondo as a child to investing in ONE Championship as a global sports leader. The organization has become the world’s largest martial arts organization, broadcasting globally to over 190 countries with an extensive list of broadcast partners. Teh highlighted the challenges of staying on top in the sports industry but expressed his commitment to continuing to build the ONE brand and expand its reach.
The future looks bright for the ONE Championship in Qatar, with plans to not only continue hosting events but also establish training academies and undertake more projects in the country. Teh emphasized his strong commitment to Qatar’s future, highlighting the organization’s deepening roots in the country and its robust relationship with Qatari partners. The success of the ONE:166 event in Qatar has paved the way for future collaborations and growth opportunities in the region.
