Kashmir’s once-volatile Pulwama gives birth to its first Mixed Martial Arts champion

Born in Kashmir’s once-volatile Pulwama district, 28-year-old Owais Yaqoob has scripted a new distinction for the district by becoming the first ever mixed martial arts (MMA) champion of the region. 

Hailed for his aggressive stance and tough body structure, Yaqoob took centre stage in the world of MMA on Sunday (August 2, 2026) after defeating Bulgarian fighter Georgie at Brave Combat Federation 107.

A resident of Pulwama’s Murran village, Yaqoob’s first professional MMA debut was at Matrix Fight Night 11 in 2023. Since then, he has registered a win against Azim Mokhlis at Matrix Fight Night 14 and also defeated Amanzhol Khaisa in 2024 at Naiza FC 70 in Semey, Kazakhstan, hitting the global headlines.

Once again, Yaqoob’s performance at Brave CF 107 on Sunday (August 2, 2026) put on display power and skills. The bout against Bulgarian fighter Georgiev ended four minutes into the opening round, as the Kashmir fighter dominated it with a clinical striking display. It’s a rare record for Yaqoob to defeat an unbeaten two-time IMMAF World Champion. After the win, Yaqoob’s professional MMA record stands at 6-1 and marked his third successive win under the BRAVE Combat Federation banner. 

J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah congratulated Yaqoob for “his remarkable victory at BRAVE CF 107 in Bulgaria”. Describing the achievement as a proud moment for Jammu & Kashmir and the nation, Mr. Abdullah wished him continued success and many more laurels on the global stage. Mr. Abdullah said Yaqoob’s success would inspire countless young sportspersons across Jammu & Kashmir to pursue excellence and believe in their potential.

Scores of netizens took to social media to congratulate Yaqoob for his feat.