MMA fighter Kiru Singh Sahota is on a mission to make history as the first British Sikh to secure a contract in the prestigious finals of The Road to UFC this November. Representing Manchester Top Team, Sahota is determined to showcase his skills and heritage on the global stage as he competes against Dong Hoon Choi in Macau for a coveted spot in the UFC.
Sahota’s journey to the finals of The Road to UFC began with his victory over Ruel Panales in Las Vegas this August, solidifying his place as one of the top Asian MMA talents vying for a UFC contract. Hailing from Huddersfield, Sahota’s martial arts journey started at Lions MMA, the largest Sikh MMA club in the UK, established in 2010 to promote self-defense among Sikh youth and honor the martial traditions of Sikh history.
Inspired by former UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva, Sahota initially had no plans of becoming an athlete until he started attending MMA classes at his local Gurdwara. Now, he is proud to represent his team, Manchester Top Team, and the Punjabi fighting spirit on the international stage. Sahota emphasized the importance of his Sikh faith in shaping his character and values, stating that it serves as a guiding force to keep him honest and grounded.
As one of the few professional Punjabi MMA fighters in the UK, Sahota highlighted the underrepresentation of Punjabis in the sport, despite their rich history in wrestling. He and his brother Pav are among the only Punjabi athletes competing at such a high level, and Sahota hopes to see more Punjabis transition into MMA, leveraging their wrestling background for success in the sport.
Acknowledging the evolving perception of MMA, Sahota recalled a time when the sport was often stigmatized as “cage fighting” and faced bans in certain countries. However, he noted the significant progress MMA has made, becoming mainstream and offering increased opportunities for aspiring athletes. Sahota emphasized the importance of providing diverse avenues for children pursuing careers in sports, beyond traditional academic paths.
Looking towards the future, Sahota aims to inspire the next generation of young Punjabis to embrace their potential in sports and hopes to secure a UFC contract to further showcase his culture on an international platform. With opportunities for young athletes expanding, Sahota is determined to make his mark in the finals of The Road to UFC and pave the way for more Punjabis to excel in the world of MMA.
In conclusion, Kiru Singh Sahota’s journey as a Sikh UFC fighter is not just about personal success but also about breaking barriers, representing his heritage, and inspiring others to pursue their dreams in sports. As he prepares to compete in the finals of The Road to UFC, Sahota’s story serves as a testament to the power of determination, faith, and the unwavering spirit of the Punjabi community in the world of MMA.