By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD, OCT 22 /DNA/ – As Pakistan–India tensions continue to play out in sports, a new battlefield is emerging — Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). But for Pakistan’s undefeated sensation Rizwan Ali, who faces India’s Rana Rudra Singh on Thursday (Today) at The Agenda Arena, Dubai.
“There’s no real Pakistan–India rivalry in MMA,” Rizwan says confidently. “In cricket, we lose again and again, but in MMA, I always win. I’ve beaten every Indian opponent — how can there be a rivalry if they can’t compete?”
Dubbed a showdown bigger than the Super Bowl, the Rizwan–Rudra clash carries massive hype, high stakes, and political undertones. Promoted by Absolute Championship Akhmat (ACA) — the elite Russian MMA organization backed by Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov — the event promises intense drama and world-class fighting.
Undefeated at 10–0, Rizwan has become Pakistan’s most dominant MMA fighter, known for his relentless stamina and knockout power. His Indian opponent, Rana Rudra Singh, once a UFC hopeful, is determined to rewrite the narrative.
“My training is going perfectly,” Rizwan says. “Rudra is tough, but I plan to finish him early. I respect every fighter, but I’m confident in my preparation and strategy.”
The Dubai clash could also be Rizwan’s ticket to the UFC, with senior UFC scouts expected ringside. But Rizwan remains grounded: “Whether it’s UFC or ACA — a fight is a fight. It’s about mindset, fitness, and skill. I’m ready for any stage.”
He credits his success to Omar Ahmed, President of the Pakistan MMA Federation and founder of Brave Gym.
Meeting Omar was a turning point,” Rizwan shares. “He trained, mentored, and believed in me. Because of him, I stand undefeated.”
Omar’s mission is to place a Pakistani fighter in the UFC and redefine the country’s global sports image. “We’re not just building fighters — we’re building a movement,” Omar says. “MMA in Pakistan is real, it’s growing, and Rizwan is leading it.”
Rizwan also acknowledges support from his sponsor ACTIVIT and its CEO Dr. Rizwan Aftab Ahmed.
“He’s like a big brother,” Rizwan says. “His help with fitness, nutrition, and support has been priceless.”
