By The Taliban government in Afghanistan has officially banned mixed martial arts (MMA), citing concerns over its adherence to Islamic law. The decision, announced by the Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, follows an investigation into whether MMA aligns with Sharia principles.
The Taliban’s sports authority stated that MMA is deemed problematic due to its violent nature and the potential risk of injury or death, which they believe contradicts Islamic teachings. The ban reflects the Taliban’s strict interpretation of Sharia law since they assumed power in 2021.
The government has also imposed various social restrictions, including a recent morality law that dictates behavior and dress codes. For example, men are now prohibited from wearing shorts above the knee. The Taliban’s return to power has severely impacted women’s rights in Afghanistan, with many prominent female athletes fleeing the country due to fear of persecution.
Martial arts, including MMA, have been popular in Afghanistan, with several Afghan athletes competing in international events. Despite its popularity, MMA has not been recognized as an Olympic sport, partly due to safety concerns.
