Two young Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) players from the Kashmir valley, Labeeb and Zaid, clinched two bronze medals at the Asian Championship held in Bahrain from December 9 to 12.
Displaying stellar performances, Labeeb and Zaid emerged victorious in their respective medal bouts against tough contenders Won Gyu from South Korea and Humaid Al-Ali UAE. The duo’s achievements contributed to Team India’s groundbreaking feat, securing 2 GOLD and 2 BRONZE medals in the Youth A category.
Zahoor Ahmad and Sheikh Khalid, both national medalists, played a pivotal role as coaches, accompanying Team India and significantly contributing to the success of the Kashmiri athletes on the international stage.
The President of MMA J&K, Naseem Ahmad, along with the General Secretary and other association members, extended heartfelt congratulations to Labeeb and Zaid for their exceptional achievements.
According to their coach the win underscores the talent emerging from the Kashmir valley and its potential in the field of MMA.
He said a special acknowledgment is reserved for President MMA India Shariff Bapu, and Secretary General Prasad Gaitonde.
Their unwavering and unconditional support played an important role in paving the way for these historic medals.
The dedication and commitment of these leaders highlight that with visionary leadership, the seemingly impossible can be transformed into a reality, ushering in a new era of athletic excellence in Jammu & Kashmir, said Coach Asif.
This remarkable achievement not only brings glory to the individual athletes but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the region. The success of Labeeb and Zaid exemplifies the spirit of determination and skill that defines the athletes from Kashmir, making a mark on the international stage, he maintained.
