Unleash: New Sri Lankan MMA promotion set to catapult local talent onto global stage

Wednesday, 11 June 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

A dynamic new force is set to revolutionise the Sri Lankan sports landscape with the launch of “Unleash,” a premier sports promotion brand dedicated to Grappling, Muaythai and Mixed martial arts (MMA). Founded by a team of passionate experts, Unleash Global Ltd. aims to provide a significant platform for young Sri Lankan athletes to shine internationally, while fostering a nationwide culture of health, discipline, and dedication.

The brand is spearheaded by a formidable quartet: Kasun De Silva, a renowned and undefeated Sri Lankan MMA athlete with extensive international experience; Prashantha Wanigasuriya, a successful businessman; Shamail Annam, a sharp strategist; and Shazeen Annam, an ardent MMA fanatic. Their collective vision is to transform the perception and reach of combat sports within the nation.

“Unleash is more than just a promotion; it’s a movement,” a spokesperson for the team stated. “We aim to shift the focus from ‘screen time to gym time,’ encouraging a transition from unhealthy lifestyles to health consciousness, and instilling the values of intense hard work coupled with unwavering discipline.”

While the global combat sports market is valued at over $ 9 billion, its appeal in Sri Lanka has largely been confined to a niche, upmarket audience. Unleash is determined to change this narrative, creating broad-based interest among Millennials, Gen-Z, and Gen Alpha across all corners of the island.

The much-anticipated inaugural event, “Unleash Absolute Warriors Season 1,” is scheduled to electrify Colombo on Saturday, 14 June 2025, at the prestigious Royal MAS Arena. The fight card promises an exhilarating night with 14 explosive bouts, featuring 28 professional fighters hailing from Sri Lanka, India, and Uzbekistan. Notably, Sri Lankan contenders will be representing diverse regions, from Colombo and Jaffna to Galle and Kurunegala, showcasing the widespread talent pool the island possesses.

“There has never been such significant interest and focused effort to elevate combat sports in Sri Lanka,” the spokesperson added. “It’s a common misconception that this is purely about violence. In reality, it’s one of the most disciplined sports in the world, demanding an extraordinary combination of mental fortitude and peak physical conditioning.”

The ambitions of the Unleash team extend far beyond their debut event. Plans are already underway for Season 2 in January 2026 in Sri Lanka, followed by a large-scale Season 3 in India, signalling their intent for regional and international expansion. This journey is also poised to significantly contribute to sports tourism, attracting international visitors and athletes to Sri Lanka.

Unleash is actively seeking synergies with like-minded corporates who share their vision of empowering Sri Lankan youth and believe in the immense potential of this rapidly growing sporting sector. This initiative offers a unique opportunity to invest in the future of Sri Lankan sport and its talented athletes.

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