Suchika Tariyal Aims for MMA Glory at Asian Games 2026

Suchika Tariyal, a top Indian combat sports athlete, is pushing hard for a podium finish in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) at the 2026 Asian Games. This will be her second time competing in the Asian Games, with this event marking MMA’s debut.

At just 12 years old, Suchika was inspired to start judo after an unsettling incident. Over time, she became a successful Judo competitor, winning eight national titles and multiple international medals. She later switched to Ju-Jitsu and then MMA in 2017.

Suchika has had many successes, including a gold medal at the JJIF World Championships in 2024. She recently returned to professional MMA with BRAVE Combat Federation, securing her first victory since a seven-year break.

Now, she’s preparing for the Asian Games with coach Nikhil Kunder in Mumbai. Despite tough competition, Suchika remains focused on giving her best for India, without letting pressure weigh her down.

“I want to inspire young women to take up MMA,” she says. “Women can excel in combat sports and should feel empowered to defend themselves.”