- George Chung
- Nov 19, 2024
- 3 min read
In a groundbreaking move that bridges the world of judo and mixed martial arts (MMA), Indian judo champion Suchika Taryal has officially signed with BRAVE Combat Federation (BRAVE CF).
Known for her dominance on the judo mats, Taryal is now set to make her mark in the global MMA scene, representing India on one of the most prestigious platforms for emerging and elite fighters.
The Rise of Suchika Taryal in Judo
Hailing from Himachal Pradesh, India, Suchika Taryal has been a household name in Indian judo. A decorated athlete, Taryal has represented India on numerous international stages, earning accolades in events such as the Asian Judo Championships, Commonwealth Judo Championships, and multiple national tournaments. Her technical prowess, especially her expertise in executing throws like Uchi-mata and Seoi-nage, and her relentless ground control have made her one of the most feared competitors in her weight class.
Taryal's judo career is marked by her resilience and adaptability. Despite facing the challenges of limited resources and training facilities in her early days, she persevered, rising to prominence as a role model for young athletes across India.
Her achievements include:
Gold in the National Judo Championships.
Bronze at the Asian Judo Championships.
A consistent podium finisher in various international judo tournaments.
Beyond the medals, Taryal has been an advocate for women's empowerment in sports, inspiring a new generation of athletes.
The Transition to MMA
Taryal’s decision to transition from judo to MMA stems from her desire to test her skills in a more dynamic combat environment. Judo’s emphasis on grappling and submissions provides a strong foundation for MMA, and Taryal’s adaptability is expected to make her a formidable opponent in the cage.
Her initial exposure to MMA came through cross-training sessions with prominent Indian MMA gyms, where her ability to transition seamlessly from throws to ground control impressed coaches and peers. Recognizing the potential to showcase her skills on a global platform, she made the bold choice to join BRAVE CF.
Signing with BRAVE CF
The announcement of Taryal’s signing with BRAVE Combat Federation marks a historic moment for Indian MMA. BRAVE CF, headquartered in Bahrain, has built a reputation for nurturing talent from around the globe and giving athletes a stage to showcase their abilities. Taryal’s signing aligns with the promotion’s commitment to diversity and its focus on developing MMA in emerging markets like India.
Speaking about the signing, BRAVE CF President Mohammed Shahid said,"Suchika Taryal is a phenomenal athlete with a champion's mindset. Her judo credentials are unmatched, and we believe she has all the tools to succeed in MMA. BRAVE CF is excited to help her transition and grow as a fighter on the global stage."
Taryal’s MMA Journey Begins
Taryal is expected to compete in the Women’s Flyweight Division, where her judo background could give her a unique edge over opponents. Her ability to dictate fights through clinches, takedowns, and ground control, coupled with her improving striking skills, could make her a serious contender in the division.
In her own words, Taryal expressed excitement about the new chapter:"Judo has taught me discipline, strength, and the art of combat. I am thrilled to join BRAVE CF and explore the world of MMA. This is not just about fighting; it's about representing my country on a new platform and proving that Indian athletes can compete and excel globally."
Impact on Indian MMA
Suchika Taryal’s signing is a significant milestone for Indian MMA. With athletes like Ritu Phogat paving the way for wrestlers in MMA, Taryal’s entry highlights the potential of judo practitioners in the sport. Her journey is expected to inspire more judokas and martial artists in India to explore opportunities in MMA.
As BRAVE CF continues to expand its reach in South Asia, Taryal’s presence in the promotion could boost the visibility of Indian fighters and bring more attention to the rapidly growing MMA scene in the country.
While her MMA debut date is yet to be announced, Taryal has already begun intensive training under renowned MMA coaches, focusing on striking, wrestling defense, and cage tactics to complement her judo expertise. Fans are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to see how her skills translate into the octagon and how she fares against seasoned MMA fighters.
