Sangram Singh plans to begin his MMA debut with first-round submission victory against Pakistani opponent

NEW DELHI: Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is often seen as a sport for the younger generation, but for renowned wrestler Sangram Singh, age is no barrier. At 39, Sangram is preparing for his eagerly awaited MMA debut against Pakistan’s Ali Raza Nasir in the 93 kg category at the Gama International Fighting Championship, held at the European University.


A gold medalist at the Commonwealth Heavyweight Wrestling Championship, Sangram is known for his resilience and determination. He aims to make a strong impression in this demanding sport. His participation is significant, as he will become the first Indian male wrestler to be featured on the main fight card at the Global Martial Arts Association (GAMA) championship.

Confident in his abilities, Sangram is optimistic about ending the fight in the first round itself against his Pakistani opponent.



TimesofIndia.com caught up with Sangram for an exclusive interview, where he shared insights into his wrestling journey, his decision to transition to MMA, and his plans for this highly anticipated debut.

What made Sangram Singh choose MMA?
I have been a wrestler all my life. Wrestling has given me a lot. In Haryana, if you are a wrestler, you are highly respected. And this has been the case since the beginning. I have seen this respect for wrestlers since my childhood. I used to closely observe wrestlers—their game, their techniques, their daavs—and that's how I decided to become a wrestler. I just wanted to be a wrestler. First, I worked on my body and fitness and slowly walked the path of becoming one. I didn't have much money. I used to get 1 rupee for one bout in my village. My guruji would give me 1 rupee for a bout. My sister or mother used to sew my langot for the bouts and practice. I worked very hard to reach this level. I remember a time when I fought a bout for just 50 rupees and struggled even for breakfast.

Now, I have chosen MMA. It is a growing sport, and that's why I have chosen it. I took a lot of time to decide on this dangerous sport, but now I am determined to do something different in MMA. Today, the youth follow only two sports—soccer and MMA. MMA is a combat sport. At this age, I have chosen this sport, and I am confident I will do well. I had many discussions with my cousin, family, and coaches. They all said there would be a lot of injuries in this sport. I said, "We will see." I am really excited about my new journey. I follow just one principle in life: 'Being normal is boring, be crazy about everything.' I want to inspire the youth in our country.

This fight is more than just a match—it’s India vs Pakistan. Do you feel any added pressure?
Obviously, there will be pressure. When it's India vs Pakistan, pressure is inevitable. It's a tough sport. One thing I have noticed is that wrestlers have been very successful in this sport. Rutu has done well for India. There is pressure, but I am ready for this big challenge. Jo hoga dekh lenge (We will see whatever happens). I am ready for this big fight and my new journey. I am a pure vegetarian. I eat ghee and drink milk. I exercise 6-7 hours daily. I keep myself fit. This is the most important thing. I try to stay positive in mind, body, and soul.

What’s your game plan against your Pakistani opponent?
A wrestler has a strong grip. That's my plan. I will tire him out and go for a submission. If I can pin him down and hold a strong grip on him, I will go for a submission. That's my strategy. Submission will be a plus point for me. I will try to finish the bout in the first round.

Is age just a number for Sangram Singh?
It is all about self-belief. Not just for Sangram Singh, but for everyone, age is just a number. If you have self-belief, you can do anything. Work out, exercise, and keep yourself fit. Just love your body and take care of it. I know MMA is a sport for youngsters, but I have done a lot to get into the groove. I love nature and live accordingly. I wake up according to nature and plan my daily schedule around it. I don't drink tea or coffee. I eat according to nature and never skip meals. Age is just a number, but the way I live, it feels like I am 14 or 15 years old.

How will your wrestling background benefit you in MMA?
I always wanted to do something so that people remember me as wrestler Sangram Singh, not just Sangram Singh. Wrestling has given me a lot; it has given Sangram Singh his identity. A champion is not the one who finishes at the top or wins a trophy. A champion is the one who tries regularly, who falls, stands up, and then chases his dreams or goals.

Wrestlers who have turned MMA fighters always have an upper hand. The reason is that wrestlers have the strongest grip in the world. I will bring all my wrestling experience into MMA.

Have you had the chance to study your Pakistani opponent?
I haven't read much about him. But my coach saab looked up his stats and told me a lot about him. My reply to coach saab was, "Coach saab, aap bata rahe ho ya dara rahe ho?" (Are you informing me or scaring me?). He is heavy, and he has a different body type. He has an MMA background. I am making my debut. But I am ready and set for this big challenge.

How did your family react when you told them you were transitioning to MMA?
Interestingly, neither Payal ji (my wife) nor my mother knows about MMA. They do not know what MMA is. Only my nephews know about MMA. They all are excited.




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