‘My Coach Says Never Lose To Pakistan’, Recalls Sangram Singh Ahead MMA Debut Against Ali Raza Nasir

New Delhi: Winning and a losing are a part and parcel of any sport but a defeat to Pakistan is unacceptable, opines Sangram Singh who is set to become the first Indian male wrestler to step into the field of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). A two-time former Commonwealth Heavyweight Championships winner, Sangram will make his MMA debut against Pakistan’s Ali Raza Nasir at the Gama International Fighting Championship on September 21 at Heroes Square 1 in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Be it in cricket, hockey or any other sport, the India vs Pakistan encounters always holds a special place in everyone’s heart. Expectations will be high on Sangram too as the 39-year-old admitted any fight against Pakistan comes with its own pressure.

“Whatever fight happens, it is always difficult and when it’s against Pakistan, then it seems more difficult because our coach always says, ‘whether you lose to Bangladesh, Nepal or you lose to any other country it does not matter, but never lose to Pakistan,” Sangram responded to an India.com query on Tuesday during a press conference in the Capital.

“Not only my coach but everyone says that never lose to Pakistan, that creates a lot of pressure on the fight, Whether it be cricket, wrestling, hockey or any other sport. If you see the hard-core matches are only between India and Pakistan,” added Sangram who will become the second Indian after Pooja Tomar to compete as a MMA fighter.

Sangram’s career switch from wrestling to MMA also shows how dedicated he is to bringing the sport closer to the young masses in India. “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. I hope to inspire them to believe that with commitment and effort, they too can achieve greatness globally,” he added.

Sangram hoped that by joining MMA, he will give young athletes who want to pursue careers in combat sports a clear path. “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.

Maintaining his fitness and discipline, Sangram has been an inspiration while being a top motivator for several youths as he rose to fame. He also had a successful television and film career, participating in various reality shows and also acting in Bollywood films.