The Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Federation (GMMAF), has confirmed that Ijaz Cave will be unable to compete at the Pan American Championships in Monterrey, Mexico, after failing a medical evaluation.
“It is regrettably unfortunate that Ijaz Cave, who is the most experienced athlete on the squad, was unable to participate due to a thorough and detailed review done by Guyana’s neurosurgeon Dr. Amarnauth Dukie. This was cross-checked by the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) medical commission which has outlined their acceptance of Ijaz Cave’s review,” a release from the body stated.
The evaluation was verified by medical charity Safe MMA. The IMMAF has partnered with Safe MMA, which independently controls the clearance of athletes prior to their participation in sanctioned competition, maintains medical records and provides medical advice to competitors. Safe MMA’s panel comprises numerous medical professionals, who are non-partisan and mandated to prioritize the health of athletes.
“Under Safe MMA, athletes are required to undergo standardized medical examinations and blood tests for IMMAF competitions, including testing for diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. Competitors also undergo pre-and post-bout medical examinations, and where head trauma has occurred, they are referred for mandatory brain scans. All medical records are audited and held by Safe MMA. Safe MMA’s record-keeping duties include the management of injury suspensions and return-to-play dates for competitors. Each IMMAF National Federation has a medical safety lead, who acts as a liaison between Safe MMA and the athlete, providing updates regarding their medical clearance status”, the release stated.
“Cave underwent evaluation after suffering a knockout at the IMMAF World Championship. A post-match medical review and clearance were conducted. He was further reviewed and the safety of the athlete was considered pivotal in this regard. His clearance date is 25th January 2023.”
Meanwhile, Gavin Singh, GMMAF President during a brief comment, said, “I am very disappointed that he is not competing, because he would have worked hard and dedicated his time to compete in the tournament, when something like this happens it demotivates athletes. However, health is more important, and we can’t put a price on health and that is why IMMAF has these health safety protocols and regulations. What we will be looking at is for him to give moral support and encouragement to the team, as he will be there for the duration of the tournament.”
Cave [middleweight], who is a member of the Guyana Police Force Martial Arts Academy, departed for the Spanish speaking nation as part of a four-member team. The other participants are Shenese Bobb [lightweight], Trevlon Clarke [welterweight], and Carl Ramsay [heavyweight].
