As mixed martial arts (MMA) makes its historic debut as an official event at the Asian Games starting September 19, India’s medal hopes in the traditional men’s 77kg category rest firmly on professional fighter Varun Sanyal. Fresh off an impressive bronze medal win at the 2026 Asian Championships in China, Varun anchors India’s compact two-member MMA contingent alongside Suchika Tariyal Hooda, who will compete in the women’s 60kg division. Raised in Singapore with a diverse athletic background spanning cricket, football, athletics, squash, and powerlifting before transitioning into wrestling, jiu-jitsu, and Muay Thai, Varun brings a uniquely global perspective to the sport, having also earned a Business Management Honours degree from Queen Mary University of London.
From WWE Inspiration to Prime Minister’s Advisory Council Family Support and Short-Notice Prep
Varun’s deep-seated passion for combat sports was initially sparked by watching WWE, TNA, and the legendary Rocky Balboa films, further intensified by the inspiring Olympic successes of Indian wrestlers Sushil Kumar and Yogeshwar Dutt at the 2012 London Olympics. Beyond athletic competition, he views MMA as an essential life skill that teaches calm decision-making under physical pressure. Son of renowned economist, author, and Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council member Sanjiv Sanyal and Smita Barua, Varun credits his family for unwavering athletic encouragement, though winning their support for MMA required persistence. Despite capturing the MMA SFI Nationals title in 2025 and securing official Asian ranking status in January 2026, uncertainty surrounding the Asian Games qualification process meant Varun received final confirmation of his participation just two weeks prior to the event, setting up a remarkable test of mental and physical preparedness on the continental stage.