Nepali MMA prospects take centre stage across India ahead of Dhant’s Road to UFC bout

Nepali mixed martial arts is experiencing a significant surge in regional popularity, with three rising prospects set to compete in India over the next two weeks. This expansion showcases the growing influence of Nepali fighters in the combat sports scene.

Gokul Khadka and Asbeen Chhetri will represent Nepal at Legacy Fighting Championship (LFC)-2 in Hyderabad, India, on Saturday. They are scheduled to face Indian contenders Thushar and Adil Hussain, respectively. Both fighters have previously competed and won in Indian promotions, demonstrating their experience on foreign soil. Khadka and Chhetri have rallied the Nepali diaspora in Hyderabad to attend the event and provide vocal support.

A week after the Hyderabad event, Rahul Hamal Thakuri, known as "The Mechanic" and "The Bad Boy," will make his professional debut at Aturto 4.2 in Chimpu, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh. Thakuri faces a challenging debut against India's Darren Kharshandy, who holds a professional record of 1-2 and brings significant cage experience. Thakuri expressed his determination in a video message, stating, "I am coming to fight."

These upcoming bouts are vital stepping stones for Nepal's developing combat sports ecosystem. The experience and exposure gained by Khadka, Chhetri, and Thakuri in India provide critical momentum for the nation's fighters as they prepare for larger international opportunities, including Rabindra Dhant's upcoming Road to UFC fight.

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I am coming to fight. See you on August 22.