The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) has announced that the inaugural IMMAF Angola Dipanda Open World Cup will be held in Luanda, Angola from September 17-20, 2026. Pre-registration is currently active on Smoothcomp, with a final registration cutoff of August 23, 2026, and a medical deadline of August 30, 2026.
IMMAF Angola Dipanda Open World Cup
Following its successful hosting of the 2025 and 2026 editions of the IMMAF African Championships, Angola is expanding its international presence by staging its first open event for Senior and Youth A athletes from IMMAF member federations across all continents.
IMMAF President Kerrith Brown praised the landmark occasion, noting that it represents the first time Angola will host an open World Cup, bringing together top global amateur athletes. The tournament will take place at Luanda’s Pavilhão Multiusos Arena do Kilamba.
Team registration and the tournament draw will occur on September 17, 2026 followed by three days of high-level competition through September 20, 2026, culminating in the crowning of the inaugural champions.
From Grono to Luanda
On February 29, 2012, the IMMAF was founded as the international governing body for amateur MMA. It is based in Grono, a municipality in the Moesa Region in the Italian speaking part of Grisons, Switzerland.
Grrono and Luanda represent two fascinating extremes of human geography. Though worlds apart in population, climate, and lifestyle, both destinations showcase how local geography shapes distinct, vibrant communities across the globe.
From historic forts to oceanfront promenades, Luanda offers captivating sights for dynamic global travelers. It is a booming Atlantic metropolis of millions, characterized by dramatic coastal views, lively music scenes, and rapid urban growth. In contrast, Grono is a serene alpine municipality, home to around 1,400 residents, historic vineyards, and medieval landmarks like the 12th-century Torre Fiorenzana.
Luanda offers visitors a rich blend of Portuguese colonial history, Atlantic ocean views, and vibrant modern culture. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Fortaleza de São Miguel. Built by the Portuguese in 1576, this historic fortress sits atop the São Paulo hill, providing panoramic views of the city harbor and housing the Museum of the Armed Forces. Down along the coast stretches the Luanda Bay Avenida 4 de Fevereiro (the Marginal), a scenic seaside promenade flanked by palm trees, ideal for walking, dining, and viewing the skyline.
Just off the coast lies Ilha do Cabo (Ilha de Luanda), a narrow peninsula lined with sandy beaches, oceanfront seafood restaurants, and lively nightlife spots. For a unique natural attraction, visitors can drive just south of the city to Miradouro da Lua (Moon Viewpoint), a striking landscape of eroded, canyon-like rock formations overlooking the Atlantic ocean. Additionally, the National Museum of Slavery, located near the coast, provides a profound historical look into Angola’s past.
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