The stage is set for the biggest MMA event in South Asia, as fighters completed their pre-fight rituals on Saturday night in Lahore, Pakistan, including the press conference and staredowns.
Tensions were high at the press conference, particularly between Srikant Sekhar and Rizwan Ali, who are scheduled to co-headline BRAVE CF 85 in a highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan matchup.
During the press conference, Srikant responded to Rizwan Ali’s recent comments about India having quantity but lacking quality in MMA, pointing out that Rizwan has not yet faced India’s best.
“It’s a unique opportunity to fight a Pakistani fighter in Pakistan—truly a once-in-a-lifetime chance. Rizwan is a great talent, but regarding his remarks about quantity, this time he will experience quality for the first time. He is fighting for his nation, and I am fighting for mine,” Srikant stated.
Rizwan countered Srikant’s remarks by recalling his recent knockout victory in Karate against an Indian opponent, which went viral.
“I silenced everyone last time, and it will be the same this time. My goal is to finish the fight. I respect him for taking this opportunity and coming to Pakistan. I’m 7-0, he’s 7-7, and the rest you’ll see tomorrow,” the Pakistani star said.
The ongoing exchange of words between Srikant and Rizwan has heightened the anticipation for their fight and following the press conference and stare-downs, the hype is at an all-time high.
In contrast, Bharat Khandare and Zia Mashwani, involved in the second India vs. Pakistan bout on the card, were respectful toward each other. Mashwani even shared that Bharat’s mother had sent sweets for him as a gesture of friendship across the border.
Meanwhile, Pakistan MMA Federation President Omar Ahmed highlighted that MMA could rival cricket in the region, even without government support. BRAVE CF President Mohammed Shahid supported this view, adding that the event would showcase South Asian strength.
“We want to showcase South Asian power in sports. When India and Pakistan come together, everyone must take notice. This has already been proven in the music and movie industries. What you are witnessing here is India and Pakistan coming together in another sport besides cricket. Have faith in the fighters, and we are going to change the industry,” Shahid noted.
Scheduled for Sunday, August 18, BRAVE CF 85 will be a historic moment for MMA in South Asia. The event will feature the next generation of MMA stars, top Pakistani talent, and the historic rivalry between India and Pakistan. BRAVE CF 85, part of BRAVE International Combat Week, will be headlined by the Featherweight title eliminator between Omar Solomanov and Rauan Bekbolat.
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