FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – 31 Mar 26 – Global Martial Arts Council (GMAC) Announced as Governing Body for the World Martial Arts Games
A unified, athlete-centered approach signals the next chapter in international martial arts competition
The Global Martial Arts Council (GMAC) is proud to announce its official formation as a new international governing body dedicated to uniting the global martial arts community through fair, open, and inclusive competition.
Following a period of organizational transition within the international martial arts landscape, GMAC has been established to provide a stable, transparent, and athlete-focused platform for continued global collaboration and competitive excellence.
Since its inception in 2005, the World Martial Arts Games has grown into a respected international stage for athletes across all styles and backgrounds. Since 2019, the leadership behind GMAC has played a central role in shaping and delivering that experience—helping build what the global community has come to value today.
With the formation of GMAC, that foundation remains firmly in place while introducing a renewed commitment to structure, transparency, and long-term growth.
GMAC will serve as the governing body for the World Martial Arts Games, ensuring the continued evolution of one of the sport’s premier international events while preserving the integrity and experience athletes, coaches, and families have come to expect.
“This is about bringing the community together and creating a platform where every athlete has a place,” a GMAC representative shared. “What has been built over the years matters—and we are committed to honoring that while continuing to grow the opportunity for everyone involved.”
Built on the principles of unity, accessibility, and integrity, GMAC is committed to creating opportunities for athletes of all styles, affiliations, and backgrounds—free from political influence and guided by a shared respect for the martial arts.
The Global Martial Arts Council continues a long-standing commitment to uniting the international martial arts community through fair, open, and inclusive competition. Building on an established global foundation. GMAC provides a neutral platform that welcomes athletes and organizations of all styles, affiliations, and backgrounds, free from political influence, while upholding the highest standards of integrity, respect, and competitive excellence.
Our vision carries forward a shared ambition to create a globally connected martial arts community where athletes from every nation have equal opportunity to compete, develop, and be recognized on the world stage. Through unity, transparency, and inclusivity, the Global Martial Arts Council advances martial arts as a universal sport, one that transcends borders, organizations, and politics, and remains accessible to all who choose to step into the arena.
GMAC is currently finalizing its official branding and digital platforms, with additional announcements regarding upcoming events, partnerships, and athlete opportunities to be released in the coming weeks.
Athletes, coaches, and federations can expect the same high-level experience they’ve come to trust—now supported by a globally unified structure designed for long-term growth.