Mixed Martial ArtsAsian GamesSuchika TariyalIndiaCombat Sports
Suchika Tariyal Wins India’s First MMA Asian Games Bronze After 700g Weight Split
Published: September 21, 2026
Suchika Tariyal secured India's first MMA medal at the Asian Games, taking bronze after a 700‑gram weight difference decided the semi‑final. Her win sets the stage for India's debut in MMA at the 2026 Games.
In a dramatic semi‑final that ended in a dead‑heat, Suchika Tariyal earned India’s first MMA medal at the Asian Games, taking bronze as the bout was decided by a 700‑gram weight gap.
The fight with Singapore’s Hui Hoon Teo went to a one‑minute tiebreaker after 30 minutes of regulation, with neither fighter able to dominate. The initial decision favored Teo, but the Indian camp appealed, turning the verdict into a draw.
MMA Sports Federation president Nikhil Kunde said the winner would be the lighter fighter based on the morning weigh‑in. Teo weighed in 700 grams lighter, giving him the 2‑0 win and a spot in the gold‑medal bout.
Tariyal broke down in tears on the mat while her coach tried to calm her. The disappointment was palpable after she had fought hard and felt she had earned the victory.
Her bronze marks a historic first for India in MMA, which made its Asian Games debut in 2026. It also underscores her journey from judo and ju‑jitsu to the cage after an early life ordeal.
India now looks to build on this milestone as it prepares for the 2026 Games where MMA will return, and Tariyal aims to refine her game for future international contests.