Guwahati, May 20: For 28-year-old Mridul Saikia, the journey from a humble neighborhood in Guwahati to the global stage of mixed martial arts (MMA) embodies grit, grief, and sheer determination. Familiarly known as The Crusher, Mridul is set to carve history as the only Indian fighter in Season 4 of Road to UFC — an elite series aimed at scouting Asia’s top MMA talents for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
On May 22, Mridul will face Agulali from China in the flyweight category during the event’s opening round in Shanghai. A win would not only solidify his position in international MMA but also bring him a step closer to securing a contract with the UFC — the pinnacle of combat sports.
“I’m well prepared for this fight. I want to give everything because winning this ‘Road to UFC’ will take me to the UFC where every fighter wants to be,” Mridul expressed in an intimate conversation with The Assam Tribune ahead of the highly awaited bout. “This has been my dream, and I’m at the threshold of that dream.”
What makes Mridul’s story even more inspiring is the personal loss and hardships that shape his dedication to the sport. “When my mother passed away in 2017, I was just 17. It hit me hard. I didn’t want to waste time — I invested everything I had into MMA. That moment transformed me completely.”
Once an academically successful student, Mridul faced resistance from his family when he opted for a career in martial arts. However, over time, with unwavering support from his elder sister Jeba and her husband Imtiyaz, who provided both financial and emotional backing, the tide changed. His father, an employee of the Border Roads Organisation, now beams with pride when his son is recognized from national fights.
“There was a moment when one of my father’s senior officers told him he had seen my fight in New Delhi. It was a proud day for him,” he recalled with a smile.
Mridul’s nickname, The Crusher, reflects not only his aggressive fighting style but also his unyielding spirit. After years of amateur fights and local tournaments, he honed his grappling and wrestling techniques in Phuket, Thailand. Currently, he trains at Dojang MMA in Guwahati, which has evolved into a credible hub for aspiring fighters in Assam.
“Yes, good facilities exist in Guwahati now. But it’s crucial to choose the right gym. Focusing on the basics in the first year is key. Local competitions have also increased, providing valuable experience to young fighters,” noted Mridul, who boasts an impressive MMA record of 8 wins with no losses or draws.
His journey in martial arts was sparked by childhood fascination with WWE and action films. Yet, it was his inner calling, uncovered after his mother’s death, that fully committed him to MMA.
A deeply spiritual person, Mridul finds inner strength in his devotion to Mahadev, maintaining a calm demeanor before fights. “I prefer silence before entering the cage. I think of Mahadev to gain strength.”
What distinguishes Mridul’s mindset is his inspiration from Assam’s legendary warrior, Lachit Barphukan. “Lachit Barphukan’s courage and love for his country have always motivated me. He was a formidable warrior who prioritized his nation above all. I strive to embody that spirit in the cage,” he shared.
His rising reputation has even attracted the attention of former UFC light heavyweight champion Forrest Griffin, who mentioned him in a recent interview. “It’s a huge opportunity for me… I’ll do my best so that he continues to watch me fight,” Mridul said humbly.
As Road to UFC Season 4 launches in Shanghai, featuring 32 fighters from 11 countries across four weight divisions, all eyes in Assam — and India — will be on The Crusher from Guwahati.
“I seek the blessings of the people of Assam. I want to win this for all of us,” Mridul concluded with quiet determination.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/sports/guwahati-crusher-inspired-by-lachit-borphukan-eyes-ufc-glory-1578122
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Publish Date: 2025-05-20 18:23:00
