Indian mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter and wrestling star Sangram Singh is gearing up for his first title bout against Pakistan’s Abid Ali for the Asia Champion title in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on July 19. The upcoming India-Pakistan clash has stirred excitement within the combat sports community, with the victor earning the prestigious Asian Champion title.
Sangram Singh emphasized the mental and emotional challenges associated with the cross-border rivalry, highlighting the importance of staying composed and sticking to the team’s strategy amidst psychological warfare. While acknowledging the intensity of the contest, he advocated for maintaining a balanced perspective by separating sports from political tensions.
Having transitioned from wrestling to professional MMA, Sangram has achieved significant success, remaining undefeated with a 3-0 professional MMA record. His victories over opponents from Tunisia, France, and Pakistan have solidified his position in the MMA arena, with his win in Argentina marking him as the first Indian to triumph in a professional MMA bout on Argentine soil.
Addressing the media in anticipation of the fight, Sangram expressed his commitment to representing India and its people in the cage. He emphasized the significance of the India-Pakistan rivalry in sports and underlined the values of discipline, respect for opponents, and national pride as crucial elements in his preparation for the upcoming bout.
Sangram’s coach, Bhupesh Kumar, voiced confidence in the fighter’s readiness, praising his improved skills in wrestling, striking, conditioning, and mental fortitude. Kumar expressed admiration for Abid Ali but affirmed Sangram’s preparedness to deliver a remarkable performance in the ring, aiming to uphold the Indian flag with honor.
