The Swiss city of Paradiso, overlooking the serene beauty of Lake Lugano, became the stage for a landmark moment in martial arts history. For the first time ever, Switzerland hosted an International MMA Judges & Referees Seminar, led by none other than world-renowned referee Marc Goddard.

Held at the prestigious Hotel The View, this two-day seminar marked a new era for the development of mixed martial arts in Switzerland and beyond. The event was organized under the leadership of Iman Amirmohammadi, President of the International MMA Federation (IMMAF) and the International Self-Defense Federation, who emphasized the importance of professional education and governance in combat sports.

A Global Authority at the Helm

Marc Goddard, often regarded as one of the most respected referees in MMA worldwide, brought his unparalleled expertise to Switzerland for the very first time. Known for officiating in the world’s top MMA promotions, Goddard shared critical insights on officiating standards, judging criteria, and the evolving rules of the sport.

Participants from across Europe and beyond gathered to benefit from his knowledge, engaging in interactive sessions, practical case studies, and in-depth discussions on the complexities of fair and safe MMA governance.

A Milestone for Switzerland

This seminar wasn’t just another event — it was a milestone. By hosting the first-ever international referee and judge seminar, Switzerland established itself as a pioneer in fostering professionalism and transparency in MMA.

“Education is the backbone of fair competition,” said Iman Amirmohammadi. “By bringing Marc Goddard to Switzerland, we’re not only raising the standard of MMA officiating here but also contributing to the global credibility of the sport.”

The Road Ahead

The successful conclusion of the seminar sets the stage for more international collaborations, future seminars, and the continued growth of MMA in Switzerland. Attendees left not only with certification but with a renewed commitment to uphold the highest standards of refereeing and judging.

As the sport continues to expand worldwide, Switzerland’s April 2025 seminar will be remembered as the dawn of a new chapter in the governance of MMA officiating.