By Aziz Khatri
KARACHI: Comic Con Pakistan achieved a historic milestone in the country’s sports history by holding international-standard Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), kickboxing and boxing trials in Karachi for the first time. The event, titled Trials of Combat Sports, formed part of Comic Con Pakistan 2026 and featured high-level competitions in multiple weight categories.
Organized under the Sindh Youth Club, the day-long trials attracted young and talented fighters from across Pakistan. Matches were conducted under the supervision of certified referees, offering thrilling contests that captivated sports fans throughout the day.
Speaking to the media, Comic Con Pakistan President Syed Aamir Sajjad said the event aimed to steer youth towards constructive, healthy activities. He stressed that Pakistan possesses abundant sporting talent, but the country needs platforms, quality training and international exposure to fully harness it.
Around 150 players competed in the trials, and 50 top athletes were selected through a fair, merit-based process. These players will go on to represent Pakistan at the grand Comic Con Pakistan 2026 event, scheduled for 31 January at the Karachi Expo Centre.
Sajjad added that the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Government of Sindh, provided full support, reflecting a collaboration between the government and private sector to create safe and positive opportunities for young people. He said Comic Con Pakistan intends to continue organising such events to develop discipline, self-confidence and international-standard skills among youth through sports.
Coaches, athletes and sports officials welcomed the trials, describing them as a historic step. They expressed hope that more international-standard combat sports competitions would be held in Pakistan, providing opportunities for athletes to grow and enhancing the country’s positive image globally.
