Pakistan’s Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has achieved a historic milestone, with Asim Khan — the country’s first-ever Asian Games MMA medallist — receiving a cash award from Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif in recognition of his bronze medal at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026 in Japan.
The recognition brings MMA into the national sporting spotlight alongside established disciplines such as hockey, cricket and squash, marking an important step towards greater recognition and a brighter future for the sport in Pakistan.
Under the leadership of President Zulfiqar Ali, the Pakistan Mixed Martial Arts Federation (PMMAF) has pursued a vision of developing Pakistani athletes through international exposure, training opportunities, competition experience and structured athlete development. As part of this vision, Khan has received support from PMMAF since 2021, helping him progress through international competitions and earn medals for Pakistan at World and Asian Championships before his historic Asian Games podium finish.
The federation said its broader commitment extends to developing other talented Pakistani athletes and preparing them to compete at the highest international level.
PMMAF President Zulfiqar Ali said the achievement reflected the federation’s vision of investing in Pakistani talent and creating genuine opportunities for athletes to succeed internationally. He said that through training, international participation and continuous development, PMMAF aims to build a strong foundation for Pakistan MMA, adding that Khan’s achievement was a proud result of this ongoing commitment and that the federation remains focused on developing more athletes who can bring honour to the country.
Asim Khan expressed gratitude to the Government of Pakistan and the Pakistan Olympic Association for recognising his achievement, and offered special thanks to PMMAF President Zulfiqar Ali for believing in him and supporting his development since 2021 by providing opportunities to train, compete internationally and represent Pakistan at major championships. He said the trust placed in him, along with the support of his coaches and family, had played an important role in his journey, and that he would continue working hard to bring further honour to Pakistan.
PMMAF said Khan’s achievement and its government recognition reflect the growing potential of MMA in Pakistan, and that the federation remains committed to athlete development, international competition, and building opportunities for the next generation of Pakistani fighters.
