Long before his name became synonymous with international MMA promotions, Manuel Joseph “Seph” Bajarias Sanchez was a young boy navigating life’s complexities with grit and determination. Today, he’s not only an established businessman and visionary entrepreneur, but also a respected figure in the world of Mixed Martial Arts—both in the Philippines and abroad.
As an international MMA promoter, Seph has made it his life’s mission to open doors for aspiring Filipino athletes. “I provide opportunities in the field of MMA sports,” he says. “I give dreams to young potential athletes to fight in different countries to represent the Philippines.” His reach spans continents, sending fighters to Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Africa, Kazakhstan, China, Qatar, Japan, and even Europe, including Ireland. And now, he returns to the UAE, particularly Dubai, to continue this mission of honor.
Creating purpose through passion
For Seph, promoting MMA is not just a job—it’s a purpose. “Enjoyment for me now is helping Filipino athletes chase their dreams and give honor to the country,” he shares. He sees beyond the business side of promotions, focusing on how discipline and consistency can help fighters achieve glory.
Traveling with his fighters has also shaped his own worldview. “You become more open-minded,” he explains. “You realize what’s truly important is not the money you earn after the event, but the value you contribute to the industry and society. When you become part of something bigger, you become a bigger person.”
From street fights to world fights
But his current success was far from guaranteed. Seph opens up about his childhood struggles—growing up in a broken family and being raised by his grandparents after his parents separated. “My mother was a well-known Filipina pilot. My father was a politician. But I grew up away from them,” he says. “As a child, I had to find ways to earn. I thought I was just playing games on the street, but I was already doing business even back then.”
He also recalls being involved in street fights almost every day at school—an ironic foreshadowing of his future in combat sports. “I never stopped believing that someday, my time would come. I knew that in God’s time, He would give me wisdom and knowledge—if I was ready.”
Today, Seph uses his platform not only to promote fights but to inspire. “I say this now because I think it’s time for my parents—especially my father—to know who I am and what I have become. I forgive them. And I want others to see how perseverance can change one’s destiny.”
Looking ahead and giving back
Now focused on expanding his global MMA promotions, Seph is also branching out into other ventures. One of his businesses, which specializes in artificial food displays for restaurants, is gaining traction and he is eager to explore partnerships.
Still, MMA remains close to his heart. He dreams of establishing training facilities across the country to nurture the next generation of fighters and instill in them the values that guided his own journey.
To fellow Filipinos, Seph offers this advice: “Respect is better than fame. Trust is better than admiration. You can admire people who are famous—until you discover their character and they disappoint you. Don’t seek to be admired. Be trustworthy and earn respect.”
He adds, “Work hard. Train your mind. Focus on the good things. With consistency, good things will happen.”
