MMA – THE echoes of one of sport’s most storied rivalries are set to reignite once again, not on the cricket field but inside the BRAVE Combat Federation cage.
As BRAVE CF 101 takes place tonight in Bahrain, the stage is set for a South Asian spectacle: Pakistan’s Aqib Awan (7-3-0) against India’s Punyajit Likharu (5-1-0) in a bantamweight bout that has already become the talk of the region.
But this contest is more than a meeting between two rising athletes. It’s Team Rizwan vs Team Anshul, a symbolic clash between two emerging MMA powerhouses representing nations whose sporting rivalries have captivated fans for decades.
In recent years, Pakistani fighters have enjoyed the upper hand inside the BRAVE CF cage, notching several key wins against Indian counterparts. Fighters from Fight House Islamabad have consistently impressed with their grit, finishing ability, and composure on the global stage – a testament to Pakistan’s rapid evolution as a mixed martial arts (MMA) nation.
Across the border, however, India’s combat sports momentum has never been stronger. In cricket, India continues to dominate the rivalry with unmatched consistency in international tournaments, setting a benchmark for sporting excellence across disciplines. Now, that same spirit of competitive pride fuels India’s MMA prospects, as the country looks to level the score in combat sports.
Representing India is Punyajit Likharu, a young and technical bantamweight from Soma Fight Club and Crosstrain Fight Club, cornered by India’s UFC star Anshul Jubli. Likharu brings composure and precision, embodying the new generation of disciplined Indian fighters looking to leave their mark internationally.
Standing across the cage is Pakistan’s Aqib Awan, a powerful and aggressive finisher backed by his mentor Rizwan Ali, the fighter who famously called out Jubli after his win in August of 2024, sparking a friendly yet fiery exchange that caught global attention.
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