Date of Decision: April 9, 2019
Service Center: Nebraska Service Center
Form Type: Form I-140
Case Type: EB1 Extraordinary Ability
Petitioner Information
Profession: Muay Thai and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Coach and Trainer
Field: Athletics
Nationality: Not specified
Summary of Decision
Initial Decision: Denied
Appeal Outcome: Denied
Evidentiary Criteria Analysis
Criteria Met:
Documentation of the Alien’s Membership in Associations in the Field: The petitioner was part of the national team in 2003 and 2005 due to competition successes, indicating membership in significant sports associations.
Evidence of the Alien’s Participation as a Judge of the Work of Others: The petitioner has served as a judge and referee at major championship events, judging over six world title fights.
Criteria Not Met:
Documentation of Lesser Recognized Prizes or Awards: The petitioner’s achievements in amateur Muay Thai events were deemed not sufficiently prestigious or well-recognized at a national or international level.
Published Material About the Alien: The available materials did not adequately focus on the petitioner’s professional achievements or impact in the field.
Evidence of Original Contributions of Major Significance: The innovative training methods developed by the petitioner were not considered to have significantly influenced the field as required.
Evidence of Performance in a Leading Role for Organizations with a Distinguished Reputation: Although the petitioner played a critical role in his organization, the evidence did not establish the organization’s distinguished reputation sufficiently.
Key Points from the Decision
Awards and Prizes Won: The petitioner’s titles from amateur events were not considered to be of significant prestige to meet the evidentiary standards required for extraordinary ability classification.
Participation as a Judge: The petitioner’s role as a judge in significant competitions underscored his expertise and standing in the field.
Supporting Documentation
The appeal included various letters, certificates, and publications:
- Competition certificates and records of national team membership.
- Letters from the president of the association confirming judging roles.
- Articles and online printouts discussing his involvement in the sport and various media appearances.
Conclusion
Final Determination: The petitioner’s appeal was dismissed as the evidence provided did not convincingly establish extraordinary ability under the required legal standards.
Reasoning: The evidence did not sufficiently demonstrate national or international recognition or impact in the field of athletics, specifically within Muay Thai and MMA.
Next Steps: The petitioner may consider gathering more robust evidence demonstrating sustained acclaim and significant impact in the field for a potential future petition.
