A leading local resort has thrown its support behind local Samoan MMA fighter Asomua Saili as he represents Samoa at the upcoming 2024 GAMMA World Championships in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Return to Paradise Resort and Spa has sponsored Saili, the only competitor from Samoa who lives and trains locally.

He is one of 16 fighters from Samoa but uniquely holds the honour of embodying Samoa’s spirit from home soil as he steps onto the world stage.

“Return to Paradise Resort has taken this unique opportunity to back Asomua Saili, showcasing the resort's commitment to community support and pride in Samoa’s impressive ranking in international MMA,” said the resort in a statement.

“With Samoa ranked sixth globally, the nation's fighters have proven to be fierce competitors, standing out on the world stage despite the country's smaller size.”

Return to Paradise’s sponsorship covers Saili’s flights to Jakarta, an essential part of his journey to represent Samoa and bring pride to his home.

Resort Manager and Matriarch Afamasaga Ramona Su’a Gilchrist shared her pride, saying, “We are very proud of Asomua and all he is achieving. Being the only competitor based in Samoa, it is important that he knows that we are all behind him. Our whole resort family is supporting him every step of the way.”

The 2024 GAMMA World Championships, hosted by PB PERTICAMI and endorsed by the Indonesian Olympic Committee, brings together over 500 athletes from 78 nations to compete for MMA glory.

The event builds on GAMMA's recent milestones, including its participation in the 2023 African Games in Accra and the Asian Games. Competing athletes aim for prestigious gold, silver, and bronze medals as they perform on a global stage that celebrates both the spirit and skill of mixed martial arts.

For Asomua Saili, this journey is more than a personal achievement; it’s an opportunity to represent Samoa with pride and determination. Competing in Jakarta offers him the chance to inspire the next generation of Samoan fighters and leave a mark in the sport's history for his home country.

Return to Paradise’s sponsorship not only provides him with the means to attend but also serves as a testament to the resort’s dedication to empowering local talent.