Bakhat Muhammad, employed at a tea shop in Soldier Bazar Karachi, recently secured victory in the Fight Night event in Tehran, Iran, showcasing his MMA skills. Despite his success, Muhammad has expressed disappointment over the government’s lack of interest in promoting sports in Pakistan.
Having learned MMA in 2019 from Proficient Academy Karachi, Muhammad participated in his first international competition in Khost, Afghanistan, defeating opponent Ibrahim Muhammadi (65 kg) at the Khatri Fight Night (KFN) organized by the Afghan government in August 2021.
He continued his success in the Asian Fight Night in Peshawar, triumphing over his 65-kg opponent, Umer. His most recent victory in Fight Night against Qasim Rahemi earned him the title.
While Muhammad has excelled in national competitions, including the National Fight Tournament, Karachi Cage Fight League, Kick Boxing Fight, Kick Boxing Quetta, and Liyari Youth Fight, securing sponsorship for international events remains a challenge.
Muhammad emphasizes the need to raise awareness about MMA in Pakistan, as sponsors often shy away from supporting less popular sports. He shared his struggles in finding sponsors, highlighting emotional moments and the eventual support received from local businessman Shoib Buth, Niamat Allah Emat, Changazi Group, and some clubs.
On a local level, clubs and organizers typically finance competitors, but the international arena poses difficulties, including visa and immigration issues. Muhammad emphasized the government’s lack of interest in promoting sports other than cricket, impacting talented athletes who struggle to self-finance their pursuits.
Despite his demanding daily routine, balancing work at the tea shop, MMA training, and pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering (BSSE) at Ilma University Karachi, Muhammad remains dedicated to his career.
He urged the government to provide facilities for athletes, emphasizing the importance of physical games for mental and physical well-being. Muhammad expressed his desire to continue fighting in international competitions for his country and called for greater support for athletes beyond cricket.
