The Aruba MMA Referees Association, in collaboration with the Association of Boxing Commissioners and Combative Sports (ABC), announced significant milestones during a recent press conference. Association presidents Guaicaipuro Jimenez and Andres Tromp shared details about their participation in the ABC Convention in the United States, as well as ABC’s acceptance of Aruba as a full member of the U.S. MMA federation. The ABC serves as the regulatory body overseeing all mixed martial arts competitions in Aruba, ensuring compliance with rules and the proper organization of events.
Tromp explained that a few months ago, he received an invitation to attend the convention to present updates on MMA activities and address the sport’s limited presence in Aruba in recent years.
Jimenez noted that several referees traveled to the U.S. to complete official certifications in various MMA disciplines. This training, he said, was vital for updating their knowledge in a sport that encompasses multiple combat styles, has differing rule sets, and undergoes regular revisions.
He emphasized that knowing exactly when to stop a fight is one of the most critical rules for ensuring athlete safety and maintaining event quality. Jimenez expressed pride in announcing that the association’s members had all earned their certifications.
Despite personal health challenges, Tromp has been working to revitalize MMA in Aruba. He reached out to the MMA Referee and Commissioner Combative Sport Foundation and invited them to attend the ABC Convention in New Orleans. Four referees—Felix Pinja, Shamila Tromp, Carlos Bermudez, and Stanley Cicilia—joined him at their own expense.
The convention drew more than 250 participants from the U.S. and other countries. Tromp highlighted the importance of attending such events, as MMA regulations are updated every two years. Keeping current with these changes, he said, is essential for maintaining professional standards in officiating.
During the convention, the Aruba MMA Referee Commissioner and Combative Sport Foundation was unanimously approved as an associate member of the ABC, with all required membership fees paid. “Naturally, we must meet the requirements set by the ABC,” Tromp noted.
The foundation has a legally registered board of directors and recently elected new leadership. Tromp stressed that the organization remains open to dialogue and welcomes anyone interested in joining and learning. As part of its new membership obligations, Aruba must now host at least one MMA event annually.
Tromp also announced that he will step down as Aruba’s ABC representative on November 30, 2026. Stanley Cicilia will take over the role, with Tromp mentoring him to ensure a smooth transition and continued progress. In addition, Tromp will prepare Jesus “Chucho” Croes to become the organization’s head MMA referee.
