ONE Championship: My Father Taught Me How To Live Like A Champion - Arjan Bhullar

Add as a preferred source on Google

First-ever Indian-origin heavyweight champion in MMA, Arjan Bhullar opens up on his roots to the country ahead of ONE Heavyweight World Title Unification Match against Anatoly Malykhin later this week.

In an engaging conversation with Star Sports, ONE Heavyweight World Champion Arjan Singh Bhullar discussed the sacrifices his family made to provide him with opportunities, and how their struggles fuel his determination.

The champ also highlights the pivotal role his father played as a wrestler and a role model, shaping both his athletic career and his values. Bhullar also shared his deep connection to Indian roots and the importance of preserving his Punjabi heritage.

Speaking exclusively to Star Sports ahead of his title showdown in Bangkok, ONE Heavyweight World Champion Arjan spoke about his Indian roots and how important it is for him, he said "Doesn't matter where you go, your blood is still your blood.

"And my blood and my roots are still Punjabi. Even where I am, the food I eat is Punjabi, I even speak in Punjabi. And that's something you want to hang on to and keep."

Bhullar also spoke on the sacrifices and struggles his family endured to propel him to where he is now, he said "These feelings come from the struggle of my family, to be quite honest.

"They sacrificed for us to have a place in that country (Canada), to have a life for me, my siblings. And I've been told of those struggles of our community, and I value it, and because of that I value my culture, my heritage and my Punjabi blood."

Bhullar also spoke about how pivotal his father has been in his success and how he considers him as a role model both in the sport and in life, he said "He wrestled, he trained all over the world, and wherever he went I was with him.

"In the Akhada, when he was training, I was alongside him. Travelling for different matches, I was with him. So he was my idol, he used to never drink, never smoked, a true professional and a good father, good husband.

"All of the qualities of a champion. How to be a champion, how to live like a champion, within the sport and in life. So he was my first role model."

Watch Arjan Bhullar vs Anatoly Malykhin, ONE Friday Fights 22, LIVE & Exclusive on 23rd June, 7.30 PM IST onwards, LIVE on the Star Sports Network and Disney+ Hotstar.