WFC Celebrates 20 Years
WFC Celebrates 20 Years: A Legacy of Respect, Honor, and Excellence (2006–2026)
LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA — This year marks a landmark milestone as the World Freefight Challenge (WFC) enters its 20th year of operation. Since the first bell rang at WFC 1 in 2006, the organization has remained dedicated to a singular mission: providing a world-class stage where hard work meets opportunity, and where champions are made and legends are born.
From Humble Beginnings to a Global Mainstay
Founded in 2006 by Zlatko Mahič, WFC was born out of a passion for the sport and a desire to elevate Slovenian athletes to an international level. What began as a bold dream in Ljubljana has grown into one of the world’s most respected and enduring MMA promotions.
"Twenty years is a journey we never could have imagined when we started," says Mahič. "We have always tried to stay humble and focused on the athletes. WFC has never been about one person; it has been about the collective effort of the fighters, the coaches, and the fans who believed in us from the very beginning."
The Proving Ground
Over the past two decades, the WFC has served as a vital proving ground. By consistently hosting top-tier talent from every corner of the globe and providing a platform for Slovenian fighters to prove themselves against the world's best, WFC has become a vital bridge in the international MMA landscape. We have welcomed warriors from all continents to our soil, ensuring that every WFC event is a true world-class competition.
A Tribute to the WFC Family
This 20th Anniversary is a tribute to everyone who has been an essential part of the WFC story. We recognize that our journey from a single event in 2006 to a global institution in 2026 was never a solo effort.
- To our Fighters: The warriors from all over the world who shed blood and sweat to pursue their dreams within our cage. You are the heart of this organization.
- To the Coaches & Teams: The mentors who spent countless hours in the gym, molding athletes into icons of discipline and respect.
- To our Sponsors & Partners: Our vision would be impossible without you. We are deeply grateful to the brands and partners who believed in Slovenian MMA from day one and those who continue to support the growth of the sport today.
- To the WFC Army: Our hardworking staff and crew. From the production teams to the officials and volunteers—your tireless work behind the scenes for the past 20 years is the engine that keeps WFC running.
- To the Fans: The most loyal community in the world. Your energy has filled arenas like Hala Tivoli for two decades, and your passion is the reason we continue to strive for excellence.
"We don't look at these 20 years as a finished story," Mahič continues. "We look at it as a foundation. Our goal for 2026 and beyond is to continue serving the sport with the same humility and dedication that we had on day one."
Looking Ahead to WFC 30
As part of the 2026 Jubilee year, WFC will be hosting a series of events and releasing retrospective content to honor the legends who paved the way. The celebration will culminate in a massive night of action at WFC 30 on June 6th at Hala Tivoli, where the next generation of stars will look to write their own names into history.
We invite you to join us throughout this historic year. Thank you for twenty years of loyalty and support.
WFC: 2006 – 2026. The Legacy Lives.