Pulwama, Dec 23: Owais Yaqoob, a promising mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter from Pulwama’s Murran village in South Kashmir, has achieved his second international victory by defeating Kazakhstan’s Amanzhol Khaisa in the lightweight category at the Naiza Fighting Championship (NFC).
The fight, held at the Abay Arena in Semey, Kazakhstan, ended with a unanimous decision in Owais’s favour after he delivered a dominant performance in the ring.
Speaking to Rising Kashmir on phone, Owais described the win as the most significant milestone of his career so far.
“This victory is special as it’s my first international triumph outside India, and it carries immense value in boosting my global ranking,” he said.
Earlier in March 2024, he defeated Afghanistan’s Mohammad Azam Mokhlis at Matrix Fight Night (MFN 14) in Noida, also by unanimous decision.
His professional journey began after an impressive display in the Road to MFN Contender Series in 2022, where his stellar performance earned him opportunities on the international stage.
Prior to his professional career, Owais represented India on the global stage by winning a bronze medal at the World Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation Championship in the Philippines in July 2022.
Domestically, he has collected 11 gold medals and 7 silvers at national-level competitions, along with 17 gold medals at the Union Territory level.
Beyond his achievements in the ring, Owais is dedicated to inspiring and training young MMA talents through his academy, Lion’s Den.
Owais’s ultimate dream is to compete in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), the highest level of MMA competition.
“The UFC is my goal, and I am working hard for securing spot in it,” he said.
The Naiza Fighting Championship, where Owais secured his latest win, is a prestigious MMA organization based in Kazakhstan.
Known for its competitive platform, NFC has hosted 71 events and over 700 matches, with many of its fighters progressing to larger promotions like the UFC and Bellator.
