From Judo to MMA History: Suchika Tariyal’s Journey to India’s First Asian Games Medal
Suchika Tariyal’s historic Asian Games bronze medal was not built in a single MMA bout. It was the result of a combat-sports journey that began with judo, moved through ju-jitsu and kurash, and eventually led her to the MMA cage.
Xtratime Webdesk: Suchika Tariyal’s historic Asian Games bronze medal was not built in a single MMA bout. It was the result of a combat-sports journey that began with judo, moved through ju-jitsu and kurash, and eventually led her to the MMA cage.
The 36-year-old Haryana native began training in judo at 12 after an unpleasant experience involving eve-teasing taught her the importance of being able to defend herself. What began as self-defence soon became a serious sporting career. Tariyal went on to become an eight-time national judo champion and represented India at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
She later competed in ju-jitsu and kurash, representing India at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou. MMA became her next challenge, with Tariyal making the transition in 2017. Her background in grappling and takedowns quickly became one of her biggest strengths.
At the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, MMA made its debut at the continental event, and Tariyal made sure India had a medal to celebrate. Competing in the women’s traditional 60kg category, she defeated Mongolia’s Altanchimeg Baigalmaa 2-0 in the quarterfinal. Her judo-based takedowns, ground control and ground-and-pound approach helped her secure the victory and book a place in the semifinals. Under the tournament rules, qualifying for the semifinals automatically guaranteed her a bronze medal and a spot on the podium.
The semifinal against Singapore’s Hui Hoon Teo was a much tougher battle. Teo had the better first period, while Tariyal fought back strongly in the second. Neither fighter could establish a decisive advantage, sending the contest into a one-minute extra round. The bout was eventually declared a draw after an Indian challenge.
That was where the heartbreak came. The tie-break was decided by the athletes’ morning weigh-in, with Teo around 700 grams lighter. She advanced to the final, while Tariyal received the bronze. The result ended her gold-medal hopes, but it also created a landmark moment: Suchika Tariyal became India’s first Asian Games MMA medallist.