Kashmiri MMA fighter Owais Yaqoob defeats two-time IMMAF world champion in Bulgaria

Pulwama fighter defeats two-time IMMAF world champion Delyan Georgiev in the biggest win of his MMA career

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir’s mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter, Owais Yaqoob, scripted the biggest win of his career by defeating previously unbeaten Bulgarian Delyan Georgiev at BRAVE Combat Federation (BRAVE CF) 107 in Burgas, Bulgaria, in a major boost for Indian MMA.

The victory is being hailed as one of the biggest international wins by an Indian MMA fighter in recent years. Owais handed Georgiev, a two-time IMMAF world champion, the first defeat of his professional career.

The 27-year-old from Murran village in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district displayed composure, determination and technical brilliance throughout the bout to outclass the Bulgarian on one of the world’s premier MMA platforms.

Speaking after the bout, Owais dedicated the victory to the people of India and Jammu and Kashmir.

“This victory means everything to me. I stepped into the cage carrying the hopes of my family, my people in Jammu and Kashmir and the entire country. Defeating an unbeaten world champion is a dream achievement, but this is only the beginning. I will continue to work harder and aim for even greater success while proudly representing India on the global stage,” he said.

The victory ended Georgiev’s unbeaten run and further strengthened Owais’ reputation as one of India’s fastest-rising MMA fighters.

Owais has built his career through consistent performances in domestic and international competitions. He entered the contest on a five-fight winning streak after being named BRAVE CF Breakout Fighter of the Year 2025, making the victory another major milestone in his career.

The bout also drew global attention as Georgiev represented Team Topuria, while Owais trains with Team Khabib at the American Kickboxing Academy.  (KNO)