Pulwama, July 19: Four talented mixed martial arts (MMA) players from South Kashmir’s Pulwama district have brought immense pride to their hometown by clinching gold medals at the Amateurs Contender Series held in New Delhi.
The victorious players are Mudasir Farooq from Kangan village, Faizan Ashraf and Nayeem Ahmad from Murran village, and Anzar Ayoub from Mitrigam village, all hailing from this southern district.
These gifted athletes underwent rigorous training under the guidance of MMA coach Owais Yaqoob, the only MMA professional fighter from Kashmir. Six players from Pulwama participated in the series, and four of them emerged triumphant with gold medals. The three-month coaching program prepared them for this significant competition.
Expressing his joy, Coach Owais stated that the impressive feat achieved by these young fighters will boost their morale and serve as inspiration for other youths in the district to pursue the sport.
The series, which featured participation from players representing different countries, saw remarkable performances from the Pulwama contenders. Nayeem Ahmad secured a decisive victory over an American opponent with a ground and pound move, while Faizan Ashraf claimed victory within a minute through a rear neck choke.
Anzar Ayoub’s victory came through the judges’ final decision, and Mudasir Farooq showcased his skills with a rear neck choke as well.
Their outstanding performance has qualified them for the second level of the series, scheduled to take place in September of this year.
The players’ achievements have garnered praise and appreciation from the authorities and the public alike, who commended their brilliant performance and extended well wishes for their future endeavors.
The success of these Pulwama athletes serves as a shining example of the region’s sporting talent and reinforces the potential for nurturing more skilled MMA fighters from Kashmir.
