Mike Tyson heading to India to promote MMA startup

Former heavyweight world champion Mike Tyson will head to India in September to promote Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) startup, Kumite 1 League.

Kumite 1 League is the first global team mixed martial arts league, marking the first time an MMA competition will be contested by teams representing their countries.

In another first for combat sports, the league will also have live scoring displayed throughout the fights.

The league is supported by the All India Mixed Martial Arts Federation and India will face off against UAE in the first round.

Other countries include Arab Arsenals, England Eagles, Russia Raptors, American Arcadians, Pakistan Piledrivers, China Chargers and Philippines Plunderers. 

Kumite 1 League founder, Mohamedali Budhwani said: “I am thrilled to host world boxing legend Mike Tyson in India for Kumite 1 League.”

“For the first time in the history of MMA, we are launching a combat sports league in a team format.”

“We believe there is a lot of potential for mixed martial arts to flourish as a mainstream sport in India.

“With the support from MMA federations across the globe, we will be going to the grassroots and scout for the best talent,” he said.

Mike Tyson added: “This is my first visit to India and I am happy to be associated with Kumite 1 League.

“When Mohamedali reached out to me for the first time and discussed his vision for the league, I was convinced that this is something that has great potential.

“I will be in India for the launch of the event and I’m very excited to meet my fans in India.”