Pakistan’s renowned Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter Ahmad Mujtaba is all set to face Indian fighter Rahul Raju in Asia’s biggest MMA league ONE Championship on February 22.
Talking to Pakistan Today, Ahmad said: “I am excited about this fight as it’s Pakistan vs India and everyone loves this clash.”
Admiring his Indian counterpart, the Pakistani fighter stated: “Respect for Rahul as he is a great fighter and a lot of credit goes to him for agreeing to fight the match.”
Furthermore, he talked about his preparations and what will be the outcome of the match and said, “I am working hard for this and so I am confident that by the will of Allah and wishes/motivations from my fans, I will win the match.”
“One man has to win and that will be ME.”
He further stated that: “I know that I will give it my best and make the country proud. Not only that, the support I received from MyGym has boosted my confidence as well during the training sessions.”
He further lamented that there is no support from the government towards this sport and none of the big firms sponsored the sport. “Give us a chance and you will see our worth. Give us support and respect your heroes. Give them what they deserve,” he urged, adding it’s not a bat-ball show, it’s putting one’s life at risk for the country and people.
“At the end you get nothing. Medals and appreciation don’t pay your bills,” he added. “It’s our job and we don’t do this for fun. We have families and friends too. We have the same feelings, same heart and the same soul but different path just to make our country proud,” Mujtaba asserted.
Further slamming the lack of support by the government and congratulating Indian government for helping in the development of MMA in the country, Mujtaba said: “Congrats to India for the launch of ONE Championship as it’s owner Chatri Sityodtong is doing a great job. “
He further stated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is playing such an important role to launch this event and it is a great step towards the boom of MMA in India.
“Meanwhile in Pakistan, our government is least bothered. They even don’t know what MMA is I suppose,” he said.
Appealing to Prime Minister Imran Khan, the MMA fighter said that he wants to meet the prime minister personally and explain to him the tough journey and milestone’s which MMA fighters can achieve.
“We have talent, all we need is support. Moreover, We want ONE Championship events in Pakistan too,” he concluded.