The 2024 has been an incredible year for Pakistani sports, with athletes making their mark on the global stage. But in the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), one name stands out - Muhammad Rizwan.
The undefeated professional fighter from Pakistan has had a career-defining year, delivering three stunning knockouts and earning the prestigious Knockout of the Year award at Brave CF. His performances have not only transformed his career but have also reshaped the perception of MMA in Pakistan. Being featured as the co-main event twice for Brave CF, Rizwan has put the country on the map as a legitimate force in global combat sports.
Now, as he stands on the brink of history, knocking on the UFC’s door, Rizwan sits down with us to discuss his journey, the Pakistan-India rivalry, his training, and his vision for the future.
Q: Rizwan, 2024 has been a massive year for you. What has changed in your career and in Pakistan’s MMA scene?
Muhammad Rizwan: This year has been life-changing. Three knockouts, co-main events, and getting Knockout of the Year at Brave CF-it’s been unreal. But beyond my personal success, I feel like I’ve helped shift the outlook on MMA in Pakistan. People now see that we can compete and win at the highest level. More fighters are getting opportunities, and international promotions are recognizing our talent. The goal now is to take this to the UFC and show the world what Pakistan is capable of.
Q: You have an undefeated record of 9-0 with 8 finishes. What has been your most memorable fight so far?
Muhammad Rizwan: That’s tough because every fight means something. But if I had to pick, I’d say my fight at Brave 85 in Lahore. Fighting in front of my home crowd, delivering a knockout that won Knockout of the Year-it was special. The energy in that arena was something else. That fight wasn’t just about me; it was about proving that Pakistan can put on world-class MMA events and produce elite fighters.
Q: The Pakistan-India rivalry in MMA is becoming a big deal. You’ve fought Indian opponents multiple times-how do you see these matchups?
Muhammad Rizwan: Pakistan-India fights are electric. There’s something about this rivalry that brings out the best in athletes. The passion, the national pride, the intensity-it’s what combat sports are all about. But for me, it’s never personal. I respect every opponent. These fights are great for the sport because they attract massive viewership and new fans. People who might not usually watch MMA will tune in just because of the rivalry. That’s why I believe Pakistan-India fights should be a major part of the UFC’s plans for this region.
Q: Some say Pakistan-India MMA fights could be bigger than the Super Bowl. Do you agree?
Muhammad Rizwan: Absolutely. Look at the numbers. The Super Bowl gets around 100 million viewers. But when Pakistan and India played in the Cricket World Cup, over 1.4 billion people watched. If UFC books a Pakistan-India fight-especially me versus Anshul Jubli, since we’re in the same weight class-it could break records. This isn’t just about two fighters; it’s about two nations with a deep-rooted rivalry. The UFC could sell out arenas, break pay-per-view records, and introduce MMA to an entirely new audience. It would be massive.
Q: You train at an elite level. What does your daily training schedule look like?
Muhammad Rizwan: Training is everything. I do two hard sessions a day-one focused on striking, the other on grappling and conditioning. I also spend a lot of time visualizing fights, refining my game plan, and sharpening every aspect of my skills. When I’m preparing for big fights, especially against Indian fighters, I push even harder because I know what’s at stake. Every training camp is about evolving and making sure I step into that cage as the best version of myself.
Q: You’ve credited Pakistan MMA Federation President Omar Ahmed as a key figure in your success. How has he helped shape your career?
Muhammad Rizwan: Omar Bhai has been a game-changer for me. I met him at the lowest point in my career. I had lost two fight opportunities, I was out of money, and I had no clear path forward. Then, in March last year, I got a call from him about a fight in Karate Combat. Even though I wasn’t known for my striking, I said yes. He moved me to Lahore, covered all my living and training expenses, and built a game plan for me. That fight changed everything-I got a first-round knockout, and from there, my career took off.
At Brave 85 in Lahore, my opponent pulled out a day before the fight. Omar Bhai personally got on the phone, reassured the Brave CF team, and convinced Srikant to take the fight. That night, I delivered another knockout, which won Knockout of the Year. Then at Brave 92, he was in my corner again, and I retired my opponent with a first-round finish. He also helped secure key sponsorship deals that made my training camps possible. Without him, I wouldn’t be where I am today. And when I make my UFC debut, I want him right there in my corner.
Q: What’s next for Muhammad Rizwan? What are your goals for the future?
Muhammad Rizwan: My next step is clear-I’m making it to the UFC. That’s been the dream since day one, and now, I’m closer than ever. But beyond just getting there, I want to take MMA in Pakistan to the next level. I want to be a role model for kids in Gujjar Khan and across the country, showing them that you don’t need wealth or connections to succeed. All you need is grit, discipline, and a clean heart. My goal is to become the first Pakistani fighter in the UFC and eventually win a championship. This is just the beginning.
Q: Any final message for your fans?
Muhammad Rizwan: To everyone who has supported me-thank you. This journey isn’t just mine, it’s ours. We are building something special for Pakistan in MMA. Keep believing, keep supporting, and I promise to make you all proud. The best is yet to come.
With his undefeated record, his growing global reputation, and his great determination, Muhammad Rizwan is poised to make history. If 2024 was his breakout year, 2025 could be the year he steps onto the UFC stage, representing Pakistan at the highest level. The world is watching, and Rizwan is ready.