Sangram Singh Makes History as First Indian MMA Fighter in Argentina
As he prepares to face French fighter Florian Coudiere in Buenos Aires on April 5, wrestler-turned-MMA fighter Sangram Singh is stepping into uncharted territory. He will become the first Indian to compete in Mixed Martial Arts on Argentine soil, marking a significant milestone in his career and for Indian sports.
From Akhaadas to the Global Stage: A Journey Rooted in Tradition
In a recent interview in Delhi, Sangram spoke passionately about his roots, discipline, and fitness. Despite his diverse achievements, he remains deeply connected to his beginnings. "Waise maine gaaon ki mitti se start kiya, pehli kushti main vahin khela tha. Phir mitti se mat jane ka mauka mila," he recalled. "Then I was a professional athlete for many years. I got a chance to do many shows in entertainment. I did one or two films. I got a chance with MMA. And in the middle of this... a chapter of my life was featured in a school book, then I found out about motivational speaking. Lekin aaj bhi akhaade ki mitti mere dil ke bahut kareeb hai kyunki ussi se maine shuruaat ki aur woh hamesha rahegi."
The Entertainment Industry: A Tough Arena
Sangram, a Bigg Boss finalist in 2013, has participated in numerous reality TV shows and starred in Bollywood. He highlighted the stark differences between sports and entertainment, noting that the latter is often more demanding. "When I started doing reality TV, I understood that it's far tougher than it looks," he said. "I remember shooting in Kachchh Bhumi in over 50-degree temperatures, layered in heavy costumes. These shows offer minimal security or safety – you just have to perform. Whether it's Survivor, Bigg Boss, or a dance show, the challenges are intense and very different."
He emphasized the relentless pace: "Even if you're unwell or running a fever, the expectation is to deliver. Unlike sports, where you can pause with a medical certificate, here there's no such buffer – you perform, or you fall behind."
Support System and Personal Life
Sangram married actress Payal Rohatgi in 2022 after they met on the sets of Survivor India. He credits her honest support as crucial to his success. "There are only a few people who are what they look like. If they don't like someone, they will say in front of you that you are not good. She is like that and gives honest advice," he shared.
To maintain a happy marriage, they have established simple rules at home: "Ek toh koi bewajah salaah nahi dega. Secondly, if someone needs advice, they should ask the person if they are free and have time. Thirdly, while eating, koi kaam ki baat nahi karega."
Fitness and Diet: A Holistic Approach
At 40, Sangram maintains an impressive physique, which his coach, Bhupesh Kumar, likens to that of a 20-year-old. "We are well-prepared for the fight (against Florian), but along with it we need everyone's support and good wishes. He's 40, but age is just a number for him because his body is like that of a 20-year-old man. He works out more than young men," Kumar said. Sangram joked in response, "Coach sahab motivate karte hain ki 20 saal ki tarah body hai aur har baar ring mein phenk dete hain!"
A pure vegetarian and believer in naturopathy, Sangram follows a disciplined diet. "I eat everything, but I stick to simple, homecooked food, milk, ghee, even sweets in moderation. In Delhi, I often tell people, 'ghar ka khana le aana,' because I avoid fast food and cold drinks. I believe in eating what's natural and staying connected to it," he explained.
He advocates for a holistic fitness regimen, having practiced yoga for about 30 years, especially after recovering from rheumatoid arthritis. "I believe in nature more than science and apply it to my life. Staying fit requires a holistic approach instead of following one specific model like yoga, weight training or running," he noted.
Advice for Aspiring Athletes
Sangram warned against shortcuts in sports, such as relying on supplements. "Agar apko khiladi banna hai toh koi injection ya goli nahi, aapki mehnat aapko banaegi. Ye domestic level pe checking aur testing nahi hoti. Ab kisi ko hath pakad ke rok toh nahi sakte lekin awareness phaila sakte hain ki yeh tareeka galat hai," he said.
He urged young people to prioritize health over unrealistic ideals: "I'd tell young people not to chase the size-zero idea, but to focus on health and fitness – wellness comes with time. Today's generation is creative but impatient; six-packs and quick results seem enticing to them. But what often gets overlooked is the years of discipline, training, and careful diet behind any transformation. Instead of shortcuts or comparisons, learn from that journey. Hard work beats talent – and the ability to work hard is a gift in itself."
Philosophy on Success and Destiny
Sangram concluded with a reflective note on success: "Success or failure isn't fully in our hands, but the effort is. And it's always about destiny. So the focus should be on discipline, trying your best, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. I believe that becoming famous is an event, and success is a process. Everyone has their own destiny and is on their own journey."
