New dawn for Sri Lankan sports and tourism

By Our Business Correspondent

Unleash Global Ltd., Sri Lankan sports promotion brand, is making a powerful statement on the international stage. With its recent, inaugural event, “Unleash Absolute Warrior Season 1,” the company has set its sights on a new goal: Elevate Sri Lanka as the new epicentre for combat sports tourism in Asian region.

In an exclusive interview, we sat down with the visionary team behind the brand—Prashantha Wanigasuriya, a corporate tycoon with years of international marketing experience, Shamail Annam, the Strategist, Shazeen Annam the passionate MMA fanatic, and Kaz De Silva. 

Strategic vision for global recognition

Strategist Shamail Annam, emphasizes that Unleash is more than just a series of fights; it is a strategic national asset. “We are committed to building a brand that not only fosters local talent but also puts Sri Lanka on the global map as a serious contender in the combat sports industry. With the global combat sports market valued at over $ 9 billion, the time is ripe for us to tap into this potential and position our nation as a premier destination for sports tourism.”

Businessman Prashantha Wanigasuriya expressed that the company’s vision extends far beyond a single event. Its multiple program verticals, such as ‘Fuel the Fighter,’ provide essential technical, financial, and nutritional support to promising young Sri Lankan athletes, giving them the platform to shine internationally. Meanwhile, the “Road to Unleash” vertical creates a clear pathway for amateur athletes to demonstrate their skills and qualify for the main “Unleash Absolute Warriors” events.

Delivered electrified experience

Director of Operations Shazeen Annam, spoke about the inaugural event on 14 June, at the Royal MAS Arena. “The show was a resounding success, with 14 vibrant bouts across Grappling, Muay Thai, and MMA formats,” he shared. “We were overwhelmed by the response, with more than 6,000 people watching via live streaming across Sri Lanka and overseas, in addition to an electrified audience of nearly 700 at the arena.” This reach is only going to snow ball. 

He noted how the event captured the attention of fans both locally and abroad, highlighting key fights like the lightweight bout between the UK’s Nick Carpenter and his Sri Lankan opponent Kavindu Dilshan, as well as the dominating performance of Husni Ahamed, who secured the first-ever Unleash Absolute Warrior Belt in the Middle Weight Muay Thai bout. The subsequent face-off between Husni and WBC Champion Gevin Linden has already generated significant excitement for Season 2, proving the brand’s ability to build compelling narratives and anticipation.

Brand for all Sri Lankans to feel pride in

Veteran and founding member of the team and an undefeated Sri Lankan MMA athlete with global credentials Kaz De Silva, believes that the brand’s success is a source of national pride. “This is a movement to shift youth culture from ‘Screen Time to Gym Time,’ instilling a culture of intense hard work and unwavering discipline.”

He emphasised that Unleash is not just a brand; it is a cultural reset for the nation. “When Sri Lankans see a homegrown brand commanding global attention, it sparks a powerful sense of pride and ownership. We are showing the world that our athletes, our organisers, and our country have the talent and professionalism to compete and lead on an international scale.”

Looking for broader collaboration

With plans for Season 2 already underway for January 2026 in Sri Lanka, Unleash team is extending a formal invitation to the corporate sector to become part of this journey.

“Unleash is poised to be a major contributor to Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, attracting both foreign fighters and spectators,” Wanigasuriya concluded. “We invite all stakeholders to join us in this endeavour. By partnering with Unleash, you’re not just sponsoring a sports brand; you’re investing in the future of our nation’s youth, our economy, and our global reputation.”