The governing body said the programmes will help to support the IMMAF and the organisation of its events, which are planned to resume this summer.

Internships will reportedly range from two to 12 months, with the IMMAF saying applicants will need to commit to 20 hours per week.

The IMMAF say the programme will run throughout the year and shall offer opportunities to work with one or multiple departments.

The programme will be open to students and other individuals around the world.

"The rapid growth of IMMAF in a changing world means the time is right to enhance our team with new interns who can provide fresh insights and perspectives," said Densign White, IMMAF chief executive.

"IMMAF wants to give these individuals, who may be studying or looking for a career change, the opportunity to gain experience of the sport industry, carry out challenging work assignments and immerse themselves in the exciting world of MMA."

A separate volunteer programme will also be established.

The IMMAF say this programme will not have fixed timelines, with applicants able to support the governing body’s departments and events.

"We set up these programmes because most of IMMAF’s core staff started out as volunteers and understand the value and importance of this pathway," White said.

"The staff will do everything to make the experience worthwhile for successful applicants."

The IMMAF plans to hold a dedicated session on April 23 during the organisation’s technical seminar.

The session will provide a more detailed overview of the new programmes.