New Delhi, Jul 8 (PTI) Veteran wrestler-turned-MMA fighter Sangram Singh believes the inclusion of mixed martial arts at the 2026 Asian Games could prove to be a watershed moment for the sport in India, saying a medal-winning performance would significantly boost its popularity.
MMA will make its Asian Games debut in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, in September-October, with India set to field athletes in the discipline for the first time.
“The athletes representing India are definitely medal prospects. I won’t say they’ll surely win a medal, but if they do, it will definitely popularise the sport in this country,” Sangram told PTI.
The 39-year-old also backed India’s prospects in combat sports at the 2030 Commonwealth Games, where they are set to return after being left out of recent editions.
“Combat sports definitely have a future in India, and we’ll win a lot of medals in the Commonwealth Games 2030. It won’t be easy, but nothing is impossible,” he said.
Sangram, who is preparing for a title bout of Asia Champion Title against Pakistani Abid Ali, admitted the occasion carries added pressure but insisted handling nerves will be the key.
“When I started, I didn’t know much about pressure. Now, after fighting three matches, I understand it because this is a title bout. And that too against a Pakistani fighter. Whoever handles the pressure better will prevail,” he said.
Known for his understated approach, Sangram said he prefers to let his performances do the talking.
“I don’t speak much and like to give answers through my actions. Actions always speak louder than words. I try to play fair and not indulge in foul play,” he said. PTI HS PDS PDS
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