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Macau arena echoes with ‘Jay Nepal’ after Rabindra Dhant’s big ‘Road to UFC’ win

From Kathmandu Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Outcome reported
  • Rabindra Dhant achieved a significant victory at the 'Road to UFC' debut in Macau, defeating his opponent Kimbert Alintozon.
  • Dhant, nicknamed 'Bajhang ko Baagh' (The tiger from Bajhang), is the first Nepali to win an international MMA title and is gaining widespread recognition.
  • Hundreds of Nepali fans traveled to Macau to support Dhant, creating a vibrant atmosphere at the event, with his win celebrated across Nepal.

Rabindra Dhant has made history by securing a dominant win at his 'Road to UFC' debut in Macau, China. The fighter, affectionately known as 'Bajhang ko Baagh' (The tiger from Bajhang), defeated his Philippine opponent Kimbert Alintozon via technical knockout in the second round of their scheduled three-round bout. This victory adds another significant achievement to Dhant's career, following his historic win last August where he became the first Nepali to claim an international MMA title by knocking out India's previously unbeaten champion, Chungreng Koren.

Mero kadhma chha Nepal ko bojh. Hami baseko ho Gorkhali aama ko kokh.

— VyomaLyrics from the song 'Dhant Shot,' reflecting national pride in Rabindra Dhant's achievements.

The event at the Galaxy Arena saw an overwhelming display of support from the Nepali diaspora. Hundreds of fans, many traveling from Hong Kong, filled the venue to cheer for Dhant, Nepal's most accomplished MMA fighter. Witnesses described the arena erupting the moment Dhant entered, with the energy palpable throughout his fight. Suhang Limbu, who traveled from Hong Kong, shared the immense pride felt seeing a Nepali fighter perform and win on such a large stage, noting that many Nepali fans departed after Dhant's match, having witnessed a performance worth their journey.

It was a great feeling to see Dhant dominate the fight from the very beginning.

— Suhang LimbuA Nepali fan describing the experience of watching Dhant compete in Macau.

Dhant's win has resonated deeply across Nepal, with congratulations pouring in from various sectors. From government officials like Minister for Education and Sports Sasmit Pokharel to former cricket captain Paras Khadka and artists, many have taken to social media to celebrate his historic achievement. The rapper Vyoma's song 'Dhant Shot,' released prior to his international title win, captured the national sentiment, with lyrics like 'I'm shouldering the whole Nepal’s burden. We were born from Gorkhali mothers’ wombs,' reflecting the pride and expectation associated with Dhant's journey.

It was so amazing to see a Nepali fighter win at such a big stage.

— Suhang LimbuExpressing pride after Rabindra Dhant's victory.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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