New Delhi: Veteran Indian wrestler-turned-MMA fighter Sangram Singh has admitted to facing uncertainty and pre-fight nerves ahead of his upcoming bout against Florian Coudiere, revealing that limited information about his opponent has forced him to rely heavily on his own strengths and preparation.
Speaking exclusively to TDG before the fight, Singh said his original game plan remains largely unchanged despite the late switch in opponents. “To be honest, I did all the preparations according to him—his speed, stamina and strength. Suddenly, I got a little stressed. I don’t know anything about him, so I am going ahead with the same preparation,” he said, underlining the challenge posed by the lack of available footage and analysis of Coudiere.
Singh acknowledged that the scarcity of his opponent’s presence on social media has complicated his strategy. “Florian’s videos are very less on social media. That’s the problem. I don’t know anything about him. So I am making the same plan,” he explained. Instead of tailoring a highly specific approach, the Indian fighter is banking on his own physical attributes. “My stamina is my strength. My power and strength are my strengths. I am planning to knock him out according to that,” he added, signalling an aggressive intent despite the uncertainties.
The 40-year-old also emphasised his background in wrestling as the cornerstone of his MMA skillset. While he has incorporated striking into his repertoire, Singh made it clear that grappling remains his primary weapon. “My strength is grappling. Although I have learned some strikes to save my neck and face so that I don’t get hurt, my strength is in grappling,” he said, indicating a likely focus on controlling the fight on the ground.
Addressing questions about endurance in a three-round contest, Singh pointed to a disciplined and traditional training routine. “This is a normal three-round fight. For stamina, I eat Indian food—milk, ghee and all these things. I do yoga, pranayama, running and Surya Namaskar. All these things give me stamina and endurance, and they keep me grounded,” he said, highlighting a holistic approach that blends physical conditioning with mental balance.
Singh also reflected on the age gap between himself and many of his opponents, including Coudiere. While he acknowledged it as a disadvantage, he framed it as a source of motivation for younger athletes. “He is younger—it is not his fault. I am older now. Some of the people I compete with are 15 to 17 years younger than me. That is a disadvantage, but it also inspires young people. If I can do it at 40, they can do it at 20 or 30,” he said.
Having transitioned to MMA later in life, Singh credited the younger generation and those around him for influencing his move into the sport. He noted that even within his own family, the popularity of mixed martial arts played a role. “My nephews don’t follow wrestling. They know all the stars of MMA and the UFC. Friends and youngsters around me told me I should try MMA, and that inspired me,” he explained.
Representing India on an international platform remains a deeply significant responsibility for Singh, who described the experience as both an honour and a pressure. “It is a big responsibility. Representing the country is my biggest dream. I feel proud, nervous and responsible, and I try to do my best,” he said.
He also opened up about the mental strain that comes with competition, admitting that anxiety manifests physically in the lead-up to a fight. “There is pressure. Sometimes I stop eating, and I feel restless. But I have to deal with this fear. It is part of the process,” he said, offering a rare glimpse into the psychological demands of professional fighting.
Despite these challenges, Singh remains focused and composed, choosing to channel his energy into preparation and self-belief. His message to young fans was clear and reflective of his own journey. “Believe in yourself. We don’t lose because we don’t know the world; we lose because we don’t know ourselves,” he said.
As for his opponent, Singh kept his remarks brief but respectful, expressing eagerness rather than animosity. “I am looking forward to meeting him in the ring,” he said, signalling readiness for the contest ahead.
