Tensions High as India vs. Pakistan Showdown Approaches at BRAVE CF 85 in Lahore

LockerRoom Team

18 Aug 2024

The stage is set for the biggest MMA event in South Asia as fighters wrapped up their pre-fight rituals Saturday night in Lahore, Pakistan, including the press conference and staredowns for BRAVE CF 85.

Tensions ran high at the press conference, especially between Srikant Sekhar and Rizwan Ali, who are set to co-headline BRAVE CF 85 in a highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan showdown.

During the press conference, Srikant responded to Rizwan Ali's recent comments, in which Rizwan suggested that India has quantity but lacks quality in MMA. Srikant countered by asserting that Rizwan has yet to face India’s best.

“It’s a unique opportunity to fight a Pakistani fighter in Pakistan—truly a once-in-a-lifetime chance,” Srikant said. “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.”

Rizwan, unfazed, recalled his recent viral knockout victory in karate against an Indian opponent.

“I silenced everyone last time, and it will be the same this time,” Rizwan said. “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 heated exchange has only intensified anticipation for their fight. 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, showed mutual respect. 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 emphasized that MMA has the potential to rival cricket in the region, even without government support. BRAVE CF President Mohammed Shahid echoed this sentiment, adding that the event would showcase South Asian strength.

“We want to showcase South Asian power in sports,” Shahid said. “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.”

Scheduled for Sunday, August 18, BRAVE CF 85 promises to 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 a Featherweight title eliminator between Omar Solomanov and Rauan Bekbolat.