Indian mixed martial artist Suchika Tariyal has created history at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, securing India's first-ever medal in MMA at the continental event.
The 36-year-old advanced to the semi-finals of the women's traditional 60kg category after defeating Mongolia's Altanchimeg Baigalmaa 2-0 in the quarter-finals. Her semi-final berth guaranteed her at least a bronze medal.
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Tariyal later faced Singapore's Hui Hoon Teo in the semi-finals and lost after an extra round, securing the historic bronze medal. The podium finish became India's first Asian Games medal in MMA and marked Tariyal's first medal at a multi-sport event.
Who Is Suchika Tariyal?
Tariyal's journey in combat sports began with judo at the age of 12, initially as a form of self-defence. She went on to become an eight-time national judo champion and represented India at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. She also competed in kurash at the 2023 Asian Games.
Her sporting career later expanded to ju-jitsu and MMA. Tariyal won the 2024 Ju-Jitsu World Championship in the 63kg category and became a two-time Asian MMA Championship bronze medallist.
She began her MMA journey in 2017 before taking a break and returning to professional competition in 2024. She signed a multi-fight deal with BRAVE Combat Federation and trained in Mumbai under Nikhil Kunder, including camps at One Punch Gym and Evolution Gym.
Beyond sport, Tariyal has served as a Head Constable with the CISF and worked as a junior coach with the Haryana Sports Department. She has also appeared on television reality shows including MTV Roadies and India's Ultimate Warrior, as per Livemint.
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