KALINGA, Philippines — From Kalinga to International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF), Alexander “The Dreamer” Tagure, Jr. proved that greatness doesn’t have to come from big cities or elite training camps. Sometimes, it also rises humble from the mountains, shaped by grit, discipline, and the fueling belief of a community.
Representing the Philippines at the 2025 IMMAF World Youth MMA Championships in Abu Dhabi, Alexander stepped onto that world stage carrying not just his nation’s flag, but also the hopes of every young athlete training in small gyms wherever around the country.
Hailing from Tribu Banwar, a small yet determined gym grounded in Tabuk City, Kalinga, known for shaping fighters with heart and discipline, Alexander’s journey was not really paved with privilege. His debut on the international stage was more than a personal milestone. It was a culmination of years of steady persistence, long hours of training after school, sessions with fellow young MMA dreamers, a deep trust in his coaches, and a promising journey they committed to.
His participation in the IMMAF marked a proud moment not just for his province, but also for the broader community of local MMA athletes and enthusiasts who had followed and supported his progress from amateur bouts to national qualifiers. When the IMMAF Championships finally called, it felt like all their dreams were stepping into that cage with him.
Alexander made a strong impression in his first bout, a close split decision that was all the more notable given it was his international debut. In the second fight, he was landing cleaner shots and looked poised for a win, according to Coach Erwin Tagure, but an armbar attempt from his opponent caught him. Due to the strain on his arm, Erwin decided to pull him from the competition as a precaution.
Still, Alexander left a strong impression. ‘Proud of you, Alex, usap-usapan ang striking mo,’ ‘Grabe ang lakas ng striking,’ national MMA coaches said, echoing what many observed about how he carried himself against elite-level youth fighters from all over the world.
And yes, it wasn’t just about the results, because for many back home, Alexander had already won. This wasn’t just a fight. It was a statement.
“Congratulations, Alexander Tagure. At such a tender age, you strived hard to wave that Philippine banner in a sport we might still be young at,” another coach and pro-MMA fighter, Sharma Devaiah posted.
For Kalinga, and for gyms like Tribu Banwar, and Alexander’s, this story is already inspiring a new generation of fighters who now know that yes, it is indeed possible that someone like them can make it international.
The said IMMAF Youth World Championships, now on its sixth year with over 1,000 young athletes from more than 60 countries, is no small tournament.
This is a clear path toward global recognition as UFC Executive Vice President and Head of International and Content, David Shaw, said, “You come to these championships as a stepping stone to the next level of your potential career.”
And Alexander, like any young dreamer, is just getting started. The dream is far from over.//KB
