Indian wrestling icon Sangram Singh is set to take a new step in his storied career, transitioning from professional wrestling to mixed martial arts (MMA). On September 21, Singh will square off against Pakistan’s Ali Raza Nasir at the Gama International Fighting Championship, which will take place at Heroes Sq. 1 in Tbilisi, Georgia.
This highly anticipated matchup marks Singh’s debut in the world of MMA, a sport he believes will provide significant opportunities for Indian athletes in the future.
Sangram Singh, who served as India’s first male wrestler and the inaugural ambassador of the Wrestling Federation of India from 2014 to 2015, has long been a dominant force in wrestling. His switch to MMA represents not only a personal evolution but also a strategic effort to promote the sport in India.
Speaking about his upcoming fight and aspirations for the future, Singh shared, “I envision a future where Indian athletes stand proudly on international stages and can develop their career in Mixed Martial Arts. My own journey from wrestling to MMA isn’t just for me; I hope to build the sport in India and also pave inroads for our young Indian fighters to travel places and participate.”
Singh’s passion for promoting MMA in India stems from his desire to inspire and provide opportunities for younger athletes. He hopes to set an example by demonstrating that Indian combat sports athletes can excel on global stages, just as he has done in wrestling.
“I hope to inspire them to believe that with commitment and effort, they too can achieve greatness globally,” he added. His debut is not just about personal achievement, but a broader mission to elevate MMA and give Indian fighters the platform to succeed internationally.
Sangram Singh is no stranger to combat sports. With a successful wrestling career that spans national and international competitions, Singh has cemented his legacy in Indian sports.
He was awarded the prestigious title of “World’s Best Professional Wrestler” in 2012 and claimed the Commonwealth Heavyweight Championship in 2015 and 2016. His experience in wrestling is expected to serve as a solid foundation for his MMA career.
When discussing his move to MMA, Singh emphasized the importance of understanding the intricacies of the sport on a global scale. “It is in my nature as a sportsman to be well-versed in the sport or how it is perceived internationally. In addition, I see mixed martial arts (MMA) having a significant impact on boxing and wrestling as well as for all combat sports,” he said.
Singh’s entry into MMA is seen as a major step for Indian combat sports, as he aims to increase the visibility of Indian athletes in the international MMA scene. His fight against Ali Raza Nasir of Pakistan adds an additional layer of significance, as it features a cross-border rivalry that is sure to capture attention.
Sangram Singh’s story is one of triumph over adversity. Born with arthritis, he faced significant physical challenges from a young age but overcame them to pursue his dream of becoming a professional wrestler. Inspired by watching his brother compete, Singh fought through the pain and limitations of his condition to build a remarkable career.
His journey from battling arthritis to becoming a world-class athlete has inspired many and cemented his status as a role model for young athletes in India.
In addition to his athletic achievements, Singh has found success in the entertainment industry. He has participated in various reality TV shows and even ventured into Bollywood, showcasing his versatility and broadening his appeal. Despite his diverse career, Singh has remained committed to his roots in combat sports, and his upcoming MMA debut highlights his relentless drive to continue pushing boundaries.
Singh’s MMA debut at the Gama International Fighting Championship marks an important moment not only for him but for the future of Indian combat sports. As he steps into the cage on September 21, the spotlight will shine not just on his personal journey but on the potential of Indian athletes to make their mark in the world of mixed martial arts.
