Sports Bulletin

Karachi (PR)Pakistan’s sports community united in celebration this evening as World MMA Champion 2024, Muhammad Saqib, and Pakistan’s first female MMA international certified referee, Isra Waseem, were given a grand reception upon their arrival at Karachi Airport.Arriving via Etihad Airways the champions were greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of fans, sports officials, and well-wishers. Their extraordinary achievements were celebrated as a proud moment for the nation, with cheers and banners recognizing their contributions to raising Pakistan’s flag on the global stage.Zulfiqar Ali, President of the Pakistan Mixed Martial Arts Federation (PMMAF), highlighted the Federation’s dedication to developing world-class athletes and officials.We have consistently trained and sponsored our teams, achieving remarkable success in Asian and World Championships. Our athletes, such as Muhammad Saqib, Dawood, and now our first female MMA referee Isra Waseem, are true examples of excellence. They are not just athletes but national icons who have made Pakistan proud on the global stage.He further announced the Federation’s continued support for its athletes and officials, including preparations for the World MMA Championship 2025, scheduled to be held in Brazil in June.We will ensure that our athletes and officials have every opportunity to shine at the upcoming World MMA Championship 2025. The PMMAF remains committed to fostering the growth of MMA in Pakistan and building a legacy of success.In conclusion, Zulfiqar Ali extended his heartfelt gratitude to the media for their unwavering support:“The media plays a vital role in celebrating and promoting our national heroes. We thank them for their coverage and for giving our champions the recognition they truly deserve.”The arrival of Mohammad Saqib and Isra Waseem marks a new chapter in Pakistan’s MMA journey, inspiring countless athletes to follow in their footsteps and bringing global recognition to the country’s rising sports stars.

ISLAMABAD (Sports Desk): Boca Raton Championship Wrestling has announced a blockbuster highlight for its upcoming Festival of Fights on Sunday, December 15th. AEW standout MJF would make a rare independent appearance at the event, squaring off against veteran competitor QT Marshall. Fans will also have the chance to meet the AEW World Champion in an exclusive, ticketed pre-show meet-and-greet.“Having MJF in the ring at BRCW is a game-changer,” said BRCW co-founder Neil Glazier. “MJF brings unmatched star power, and this is the kind of attraction that puts independent wrestling promotions on the map. Fans are in for a memorable night.”MJF’s upcoming appearance at BRCW is a significant moment in his already illustrious career. It marks his first independent match since he secured a victory over Leo Sparrow at a Make-A-Pro-Wrestling event on May 13, 2023. Since then, he has wrestled in major promotions such as CMLL in Mexico and RevPro in the United Kingdom. According to Cagematch.net, MJF currently holds an impressive career win percentage of over 65%, a testament to his dominance and strategic prowess in the ring.The wrestling star’s participation is also set against the backdrop of his AEW storyline, which continues to captivate audiences worldwide. After a six-month hiatus due to a shoulder injury, MJF returned to action in June and has been a focal point of AEW programming ever since. On the October 23rd episode of Dynamite, he made headlines by declaring his return to in-ring competition at Full Gear, though his opponent has yet to be revealed.“MJF is arguably one of the most polarizing figures in wrestling today,” noted wrestling journalist Mike Johnson. “From his microphone skills to his ring psychology, he’s the complete package and has the stats to back it up. His participation in independent shows is a rare treat for fans.”In AEW’s unfolding storyline, both Adam Cole and Roderick Strong are building tension for a showdown with MJF, adding layers of intrigue to his character's arc. Cole, who returned to the ring on October 30th in a match against Buddy Matthews, has hinted at unfinished business with MJF.For BRCW, hosting MJF is expected to be a major draw. "We’re already seeing increased interest, not just from local fans but from wrestling enthusiasts across the country," shared BRCW event coordinator Sarah Lindsey. "When you have a name like MJF, it adds a level of prestige to the entire event."MJF’s appeal extends beyond wrestling circles. As of November 2024, his social media following on platforms like Twitter (X) and Instagram combined exceeds 1.3 million, demonstrating his influence and reach. This engagement is a key factor in the high demand for his appearances, both within AEW and in independent circuits. 

Sports Bulletin ReportRome (Italy): World Skate crowned two new World Champions of Street Skateboarding late Saturday night as part of the World Skate Games Italia 2024.Leading by the end of the Run stage, Rayssa Leal slipped down to sixth position during Best Trick before pulling the best kickflip back smith to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. Pushed down into second by Rayssa’s heroics was erstwhile leader Momiji Nishiya while in third came her Japanese compatriot Miyu Ito.Men’s finals saw sole Japanese finalist Toa Sasaki make up a 13 point deficit at the end of first Runs to win by a convincing 11-point margin. In second came Argentina's Matthias Dell Olio followed by Colombia's Juancarlos Gonzalez.

Sports Bulletin ReportRome (Italy): The World Skate Games Italia 2024 officially kicked off with an extraordinary Opening Ceremony, held in the stunning setting of Piazza di Spagna in Rome. It was an unforgettable event, enriched by light shows, music, and breathtaking choreography that captivated the entire audience.The iconic landmarks of Trinità dei Monti and the Barcaccia fountain provided a dramatic backdrop to a unique spectacle, organized by the Milan and Rome-based Little Eagles and Triggger. The ceremony featured representatives from the 100 participating countries, who descended the famous Spanish Steps accompanied by lights and the colors of their respective flags.A wave of emotions followed, from the reading of the oath by referees and athletes, to the stirring flag-raising against the illuminated backdrop of Trinità dei Monti Church, along with institutional speeches that highlighted the core values of the event: inclusivity, unity, sporting democracy, and fair competition.The spectacle and energy of roller sports will resonate throughout Italy until September 22, bringing unforgettable moments to fans and beyond.The event will take place across 20 different locations, including Rome, Abruzzo, Novara, and Rimini, with over 12,000 athletes participating from all over the world.With 600 scheduled competitions and more than 150 world titles at stake, the World Skate Games 2024 is the largest international event dedicated to roller sports, with an unprecedented impact on the history of global sports competitions.

Sports Bulletin ReportRiyadh (Saudi Arabia): The Saudi Pro League (SPL) is proud to announce TikTok as its ‘Digital Partner’ for the 2024-25 season. TikTok is the leading destination for short-form mobile video and with this partnership, aims to create an unparalleled digital experience for football fans across the region and beyond.In this official partnership, TikTok will introduce a dedicated SPL Exclusive Hub, a central space where fans can access content from the league's clubs and partners. This hub offers an immersive experience, bringing fans closer to their favourite teams and players in innovative and interactive ways. This collaboration sets new standards for sports entertainment by leveraging TikTok’s creative community and dynamic platform to bring the SPL closer to its expanding fanbase.Through this partnership, TikTok will elevate the excitement of Roshn Saudi League (RSL) matches like never before. The SPL will offer exclusive content available only on TikTok, giving fans unique insights into the league, its clubs, and players. From behind-the-scenes footage to in-depth player interviews, the content will create an engaging and immersive experience for fans.Omar Mugharbel, CEO of the Saudi Pro League, said: “The partnership between the Saudi Pro League and TikTok is a groundbreaking development for our sector in the region and represents a strategic leap into the future of sports entertainment. This is more than a partnership, it’s a digital revolution. We are harnessing TikTok’s power to transcend traditional engagement and offer our fans a canvas for creative expression and a suite of experiences tailored to their passion for football. We’re creating a realm where each fan has a front-row seat to the spectacle of the Roshn Saudi League, powered by the boundless creativity that TikTok embodies.” Kinda Ibrahim, TikTok’s GM for Operations in the Middle East said: “Saudi Arabia’s passion for football runs deep in its history. By partnering with the Saudi Pro League, we are tapping into this strong affection for the sport and aligning with the league’s strategic vision to become one of the top football leagues globally. Through modernising the fan experience with a dedicated space for league content, clubs, and partners, we aim to strengthen the community of sports enthusiasts by providing them with more ways to connect and engage with exclusive content online.”  

Sports Bulletin ReportDelhi (India): The Pro Cricket League (PCL) is gearing up for its highly anticipated inaugural season. Set to commence at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida, this groundbreaking tournament promises to deliver an exciting and historic cricketing experience.Heralded as one of the most thrilling seasons in league cricket history, the PCL will feature a unique blend of elite international stars and talented Indian players, alongside emerging talented youths making their debut. With new teams being formed and formidable lineups taking shape, the league aims to set a new benchmark and elevate the game beyond traditional professional formats.“See cricket will remain the same be it even when you talk about out swinging”, says Chetan Sharma the recently appointed League Commissioner when discussing what the Pro Cricket League promises in comparison to other cricket leagues.Giving additional details about the participants and the format in which they will compete Chetan Sharma says, “What’s new in this incredible setup for the first-ever Pro Cricket League season is that we have managed to bring in some new talents will now receive assistance from two marquee players on the field. Additionally, now that Jonty and I are in charge of the league we will make sure that the best cricket pitches best wickets and best grounds are available to the talented players. Moreover, in Delhi there would never have been a professional league before so this would be a great opportunity to showcase our talents in a highly competitive environment. As a result, we have made an effort to maintain the league at the highest level of professional effectiveness while including some international talents.”Jonty Rhodes, the ambassador for the Pro Cricket League, shared his expectations for the inaugural season by saying, “Observe how the IPL has elevated Indian cricket to a new level. At the State level however, what happens below the IPL is not as important as what occurs in the majority of Indian States which now produce their own leagues and talent pools. Thus, it’s amazing that corporate cricket has taken this initiative and this league will provide a chance for players who might not have otherwise had the chance to demonstrate their abilities. Because this will be aired and streamed. It’s wonderful to see that there is an additional level of support and a chance for talented players in India to showcase their abilities.”Sachin Gupta, Managing Director and Founder of the Pro Cricket League, emphasized the league’s commitment to excellence., “The Pro Cricket League is not just about high-level competition; it’s about fostering a platform where varied talents can shine. With a format that integrates seasoned professionals and rising stars, we’re confident that the PCL will offer a captivating experience for fans and elevate the standard of league cricket.”Ganesh Sharma, Executive Director of the Pro Cricket League expressed excitement about the season’s location. “Selecting Delhi as the location for our first season is a testament to our commitment to fostering and honoring the city’s enduring love of cricket. We are dedicated to turning this season into a significant and unforgettable chapter in the history of sports in Delhi and are thrilled to add to the city’s illustrious cricketing legacy.”The addition of Thisara Perera and Pawan Negi former players from Sri Lanka and India is an exciting development for the league. The Pro Cricket League is poised to grow into a popular destination for cricket fans thanks to its ability to draw top players and provide an incredible sporting experience. A thrilling season full of never-ending excitement and unmatched enjoyment is in store for fans. 

Abdullah AsjadISLAMABAD: The sports journalists of the twin cities Rawalpindi and Islamabad celebrated the World Sports Journalists’ Day, as the ceremony took place at the residence of editor www.sports-bulletin.com Abdul Jabbar Faisal at Nayyab House Media Town on Tuesday, July 2, 2024.Veteran journalist Haji Mohammad Nawaz Raza graced the ceremony as a chief guest, a senior sports journalist from Daily Jang, a highly circulated Urdu daily of the Asia Shakil Awan, and political and social personality, Kirpa Raja Zaheer Ahmed were special guests. Other journalists, who participated in the ceremony, were included Nasir Aslam Raja, Zulfiqar Baig, Nasir Usman Hashmi, Mohammad Rizwan, Khurram Shahzad Awan, Mohammad Kabir Khan, Ijaz Ali, Mohammad Murtaza Bhatti, Sheraz Ahmed, Haroon Zulfiqar.On this occasion, journalists cut the cake to celebrate World Sports Journalists Day on July 2, 2024.     

Sports Bulletin RepoportThiruvananthapuram, Kerala (India): Dr. Rajmohan Pillai, and Sh. Sushil Malik will serve as the President, and Vice President respectively of the The Sports Climbing Federation of India (SCFI), as the SCFI has recently announced appointment of boths at the election, held at the Trivandrum Tennis Club.Heralding a new era for sports climbing in India, the gathering which was led by General Secretary Col. SP Malik, emphasized the importance of scientific athlete development while applauding the recent successes of young climbers. In order to improve athletes’ performance and overall health this development will incorporate a thorough strategy that will address nutritional psychological and physical levels. This development will also include a comprehensive approach covering physical, psychological, and nutritional aspects to enhance the performance and well-being of athletes.Addressing responsibilities that will come in advancing climbing to be considered on a broader level within sporting community, Sh. Sushil Malik stated, “High Performance is crucial for athletes as an athlete’s physiology is most tested when he climbs altitude. It is imperative that we begin to assist more athletes who are testing the limits of today’s climbing challenge with advanced recovery and guidance.”Sh. Sushil Malik acting Vice President, with his extensive international experience and dedication to promoting young talent, is expected to bring significant contributions to the SCFI. He has been instrumental in nurturing athletes at the grassroots level, particularly in the state of Haryana, where he has been actively involved in the boxing circuit. His efforts have led to the development of numerous young athletes who have excelled in their respective sports. As an entrepreneur passionate about promoting budding talent, Sh. Malik's leadership is anticipated to have a positive impact on the sport of climbing in India.Dr Rajmohan Pillai acting president in consideration of promoting climbing as an important sport shares, “We can see that Indian interest in climbing as a sport is growing today. The ecosystem must be more sustainable which means we must give our talents more sophisticated support so they can be well-prepared for their mission to thrive.”Dr. Rajmohan Pillai, with his extensive experience and leadership in the Beta Group, as the head of the body is expected to bring valuable insights and strategic direction to the SCFI and take it to new heights.The SCFI is committed to nurturing talent and promoting the sport of climbing across India. With the new leadership at the helm, the Federation is poised to elevate the standards of training and competition, ensuring that Indian climbers can excel on the global stage. Sh. Sushil Malik's dedication and vision are particularly celebrated, as his contributions are expected to drive the Federation's mission forward in a positive and dynamic direction. 

Nairobi (Kenya): The Pakistan Blind Women's Goalball Team has commenced their historic tour of Kenya with a resounding victory, defeating the host Kenyan team 10-4 in the first match of the series. Captain Karn Rafeeq led the team with an impressive nine goals, while Ramsha Ajmal scored one goal. Syeda Farwa Ali showcased exceptional defensive skills, repelling all attacks from the opposing team.The Principal Sports Officer of Kenya's Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs, Margaret Gati, attended the match and met with both teams, praising the blind players' efforts and highlighting the Kenyan government's initiatives to support visually impaired athletes. The series is expected to be highly competitive, with both teams eager to showcase their skills. (PR)  

Sports Bulletin ReportKARACHI: Japan's Consul General Karachi, Hattori Masaru, has said that sportsmen are the community that can establish unity among the nations individually and collectively. Athletes send a message of hope and confidence to the world through mutual respect, harmony, and friendship. He expressed these views in a meeting with a delegation of Softball Federation of Pakistan (SFP) led by President Asif Azeem at the Japanese Consulate. Vice Consul Saito Machi, Senior Vice President of Softball Federation Dr. Farhan Essa, Chairperson Yasmin Hyder, and Secretary Finance Zeeshan Merchant were also present on this occasion.Japanese Consul General Hattori Masaru said that softball is played by more than 65 million people from 140 countries around the world. In terms of sports, the Olympic Games have an authentic and prominent place around the world and softball is part of the 2028 Olympic Games to be held in the city of Los Angeles,USA.Hattori Masaru further said that he is very happy to see the growing popularity of softball among the Pakistani youth. “We will do our best to develop this game in a modern way in Pakistan. The Softball Federation of Pakistan will organize the women's inter-provincial softball championship to be played in Karachi this month. Such events give young players plenty of opportunities to express their talents.” Federation President Asif Azeem said that Japan is one of the leading countries playing softball. Japan Consulate Karachi has always provided us with its full support for the development of softball. Dr. Farhan Essa said that we wish qualified coaches and umpires from Japan to come to Pakistan to train our players and coaches. Yasmin Hyder said that very soon they will organize a series of matches between the Japanese Consulate and the Pakistan Softball team. On this occasion, the Softball Federation of Pakistan presented a softball momento bats and souvenirs to Japanese Consul General Hattori Masaru and Vice Consul Saito Machi.