Senapati: Three mixed martial arts fighters from Senapati district bagged gold medals in the All India Mixed Martial Arts Federation (AIMMAF) open national MMA championship 2022 held from June 17-19 at Pragati Maidean Delhi. The three gold medalists were selected to represent India for Asian championship.
The three gold medalists includes, Besii Ariijii (20 years) S/o Sani Besii, hails from Punanamei village (Mao) bagged gold medal in 65 kg category. It may be mentioned that Besii Ariijii started his training from Combat Athletics Training Academy (CATA) Senapati since 2018 with his own interest and passion and played in various cities including Guwahati, Bangaluru and others. He is doing B.A. 1st year corresponding and attending his training daily by giving his full time in sports.
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Michael Rovei (20 years) S/o Lt. Eliah from Sorbung village (Poumai) bagged the gold medal in 61 kg bantam weight. Michael Rovei who was also the reigning champion of Club War 15 (Amateur fighters) held at Guwahati November last year started his training from CATA Senapati since 2018. He studied till class 10 and gave his full time in sports.
Sanchui Zimik (25) S/o Thanmi Zimik of Angkailongdi village bagged the gold medal from 51 kg category. Zimik also bagged gold last year in MMA. His other details were not available at the time of filing this report.
The Poumai Naga Students Union (PNTM), the Mao Students Union (MSU), the Thangal Students Union (TAJ), Sorbung Youth & Students Organization and the Senapati District Olympic Association, Manipur (SDOAM) gave them a hearty reception at Imphal Airport on their arrival to state on Tuesday.
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