In a move that could easily be described as "India, hold my dumbbells!", wrestling icon Sangram Singh is gearing up to enter the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). On September 21, 2024, at the Gama International Fighting Championship, Singh will square off against Pakistan’s Ali Raza Nasir in Tbilisi, Georgia. But this isn’t just another fight—it’s a bold new chapter in the career of India’s first male wrestler to make such an impact, and the proud Fit India Icon and Viksit Bharat Ambassador.
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The Leap from Wrestling to MMA: “Why Just Pin, When You Can Punch?”
Known for his extraordinary success in wrestling, Sangram Singh’s foray into MMA comes with a solid goal: to encourage young Indian athletes to dream big and punch harder (quite literally). “My switch to MMA isn’t just about landing punches – it’s about paving the way for our athletes to land on global stages,” Singh remarked, probably while flexing both his muscles and his mindset. His debut fight is more than just a match; it’s a mission to boost India’s presence in the world of combat sports.
As the Fit India Ambassador, Sangram Singh has already been instrumental in promoting a healthier lifestyle across India, encouraging people to adopt fitness as a way of life. His role as the Viksit Bharat Ambassador underscores his commitment to the country's future, representing India's ambition to become a global leader not just in sports but in overall development.
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Sangram’s Journey: From Arthritis to the Arena – And Beyond
As someone who battled arthritis at a young age, Sangram Singh’s journey from being bedridden to becoming the World’s Best Professional Wrestler in 2012 is the stuff of legends. Singh has never been one to back down from a challenge—whether that’s winning championships or tackling Bollywood dance routines on reality TV. Now, with MMA, he’s adding another feather to his multi-sport cap. His discipline and dedication have already earned him a loyal fanbase, but this next step is set to inspire even more.
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“I See MMA as the Future of Combat Sports in India”
Sangram Singh is no stranger to making bold statements—whether inside or outside the ring. “MMA isn’t just an add-on to wrestling. It’s the future of combat sports globally, and it’s time India took its place in the MMA cage,” he said, possibly while eyeing a victory stance. As the Viksit Bharat Ambassador, Sangram is not just a fighter but a visionary, believing in India’s potential to lead the world in both sports and development.
- GAMA Championship: Where Legends Are Made
Giga Kukhalashvili, the Chairman and Founder of GAMA, was excited about Sangram’s debut, calling it a "milestone for GAMA." Meanwhile, George Gocheleishvili, GAMA President, highlighted how Sangram’s participation would impact Indian athletes globally. They may not have used the phrase “prepare for awesomeness,” but the tone was unmistakable. Sangram’s entry has everyone buzzing about a new wave of Indian fighters ready to take on the international MMA scene.
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A Power Couple with a Plan: Sangram and Payal
It’s not just about the fights for Sangram Singh. Along with his wife Payal Rohatgi, he co-founded Gymansio, a fitness ecosystem that promotes athletic talent in India. Payal, ever the entrepreneur, chimed in, saying, “Fitness is a way of life, and Sangram’s MMA debut is just one part of our dream to promote sports and fitness across India.” With the power couple combining their talents, it’s only a matter of time before Gymansio becomes a household name for budding athletes across the country.
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A Decade of Support from Finolex and Heinrich
Sangram’s journey to MMA has been supported by key partners like Finolex and Heinrich, who’ve been by his side throughout his wrestling career. These partnerships underscore how much faith corporate sponsors have in Sangram’s athletic prowess. With Finolex and Heinrich behind him, Sangram’s MMA debut is poised to make waves in India’s sporting landscape—and maybe even beyond.
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From Rings to Cages: Sangram Singh’s Next Big Punch
As Sangram Singh gears up to take on his Pakistani counterpart, the air is filled with anticipation. Will his famous “mental biceps” and indomitable spirit lead him to victory in MMA, just as it did in wrestling? Only time—and a few well-placed punches—will tell. One thing is certain, though: Sangram Singh’s MMA journey is just beginning, and it’s going to be one thrilling ride.
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