The country’s leading female MMA athlete , Anita Karim, has been forced to withdraw from an international fight after her UAE visa was denied. The setback has dealt a major blow to her competitive performance and highlighted ongoing administrative challenges faced by Pakistani athletes competing abroad.
Anita was scheduled to fight at UAE Warriors 67 in Abu Dhabi on January 31. The event is one of the region’s most prominent MMA platforms. She had been preparing for the bout for several months and was aiming to compete for the second time in just three weeks. However, pending visa complications hindered her participation.
Months of preparation end in disappointment
The fight was fully organised and confirmed well in advance. Anita had completed an intense training camp. Her preparation included strength conditioning, technical drills, recovery sessions, and mental focus. The tight schedule demanded discipline and consistency.
Despite meeting all professional requirements, the visa process did not conclude on time. This ultimately forced her withdrawal from the event. Anita shared the disappointing news on her X account, calling it a deeply sad moment in her career.
She stated that she had been scheduled to fight on January 31 at UAE Warriors 67 in Abu Dhabi. She added that months of preparation and a confirmed bout were wasted due to visa complications. Her message reflected frustration and emotional strain.
Anita emphasized that such delays go beyond missing a single fight. She explained that administrative hurdles affect an athlete’s career growth and competitive rhythm. They also limit opportunities to represent Pakistan on international platforms.
Visa delays impact female athletes more severely
Anita highlighted the unique challenges faced by female athletes. She said professional sports preparation requires physical sacrifice and mental resilience. For women in combat sports, the struggle is even harder.
She explained that months of disciplined training cannot be paused or replaced easily. When fights are cancelled at the last moment, athletes lose rankings, exposure, and financial opportunities. This can also affect future contracts and invitations.
Her statement sparked discussion across social media. Many fans and sports figures expressed concern over systemic issues. The incident raised questions about institutional support for emerging athletes.
Management response and call for government intervention
Anita’s manager, Yasir Mushtaq, confirmed that event organisers had set a visa deadline. The management waited nearly a week. However, the visa was not issued within stipulated time frame.
As a result, the organisers replaced Anita with another fighter. Mushtaq said she was extremely disheartened by the outcome. However, he confirmed that her next fight is currently scheduled for April.
He requested Pakistani authorities to take notice of the matter. He specifically called on Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to intervene. Mushtaq stressed that visa challenges should not disrupt the career of Pakistan’s first female MMA fighter.
The incident has once again exposed the structural barriers faced by Pakistani athletes. Supporters hope the issue leads to reforms that allow talent like Anita Karim to thrive globally.
