Sangram Singh's MMA Triumph and Yoga Promotion in Argentina

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has lauded Sangram Singh for his efforts in promoting Yoga and Pranayama in Buenos Aires, aligning with the Prime Minister's vision. Following his historic MMA victory, where he became the first Indian to win an MMA fight in Argentina, Singh expressed his commitment to motivating the youth. Mandaviya assured full support from the Sports Ministry for initiatives aimed at enhancing sports at the grassroots level. This collaboration aims to inspire young talents across the nation, reinforcing the importance of fitness and structured routines.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 12, 2026, 13:38 IST

Union Sports Minister's Acknowledgment

Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Sports Minister, has expressed his appreciation for Sangram Singh, a prominent figure in the Fit India movement and a notable MMA athlete, for his efforts in promoting Yoga and Pranayama in Buenos Aires. He emphasized that it is the Prime Minister's vision to spread Yoga and Pranayama to every household globally, aiming to elevate sports at the grassroots level to establish India as a sports powerhouse.

Support for Youth Initiatives

Mandaviya stated that if Sangram Singh is willing to engage in initiatives under the Sports Ministry to fulfill the Prime Minister's vision, the Ministry will provide comprehensive support. He assured that all necessary assistance would be available for such endeavors.

Sangram Singh's Remarkable MMA Achievement

Sangram Singh, a double Commonwealth heavyweight champion, has recently returned from Buenos Aires after securing victory in his third MMA match. He was celebrated by Mayank Srivastava, Deputy Director General of the Sports Authority of India, at Nehru Stadium on Friday.

During a meeting on Saturday, Mandaviya praised Sangram Singh's advocacy for Yoga and Pranayama in Argentina, stating, "The younger generation learns a lot from you." He encouraged Singh to promote a structured routine among the youth, sharing his own experiences of maintaining discipline amidst a busy political life.

Historic Win in Buenos Aires

Sangram Singh made history last Sunday by becoming the first Indian to win an MMA fight in Argentina. He achieved this remarkable feat by defeating French fighter Florian Coudier, who is 16 years younger, in just one minute and 45 seconds at the Tigre Sports Club stadium. This victory marked his third consecutive win in MMA, following previous successes in Tbilisi (Georgia) and Amsterdam (Netherlands), showcasing his wrestling prowess.

Vision for Future Sports Collaboration

In discussions about the inclusion of MMA in the Asian Games, Mandaviya reiterated the Ministry's support for Sangram Singh's initiatives to inspire and motivate the youth. Following their meeting, Singh expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided by the country. He pledged to support the government's Khelo India Mission, which aims to nurture young talent at the grassroots level through various programs, including those targeting schools, colleges, and tribal communities. He remains committed to promoting fitness awareness and will be available to assist the Ministry of Sports whenever needed.