In a milestone moment for Iran’s combat sports, Tiam Dehpahlevan clinched the gold medal in the 60-kilogram division of women’s MMA at the Asian Youth Games in Bahrain — marking Iran’s first-ever women’s MMA title on the international stage.
A Groundbreaking Victory for Iran
Tiam Dehpahlevan, representing Iran’s national women’s MMA team, delivered a stellar performance on Monday morning at 10:20 a.m. local time in Bahrain. Facing Mongolia’s Ulziitnaran Bat-Erdene, she fought with remarkable precision and composure to secure victory in two intense rounds. Her tactical skill, discipline, and determination carried her through a demanding contest that ended with a unanimous win.
This gold medal represents a historic first for Iran’s female MMA fighters, who had never before reached the top of the podium at a major international championship. Dehpahlevan’s triumph was also part of a broader success story, as Iran’s MMA delegation claimed four gold medals in total at the 2025 Asian Youth Games.
Rising Star of Women’s MMA
Dehpahlevan’s journey to the top has inspired excitement and pride within Iran’s sporting community. Her achievement demonstrates that Iranian women are increasingly finding space to compete — and win — in arenas once dominated by men. Her victory is already being celebrated as a turning point for women’s participation in mixed martial arts across the country.
A New Era for Iranian Women in Combat Sports
Beyond the medal, Dehpahlevan’s success stands as a symbol of resilience and ambition. It reflects years of quiet progress within Iran’s women’s sports programs and points to a new generation ready to redefine the nation’s presence in global MMA. Her gold medal, the first of its kind, will remain a landmark in Iran’s athletic history.
From: SNN