On his next ONE Championship fight, fighting in India
Q. Having been successful in your recent fight, is there anyone in mind for your next one? What are your goals for 2020?
ASB: We had a great debut, fantastic card ONE Century, it was the biggest card of the century. We were successful, it was amazing. Tough opponent, Mauro was. It was a great way to get out there and put my stamp on the division and on the company. Obviously, Brendan Vera is the Champion. I’m here to be a World Champion. Whether that’s next or whether that’s down the road remains to be seen. We’re currently in talks to book a fight in early 2020, first quarter. We should have an opponent locked down.
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Q. Many fighters open gyms after they have retired. What are your plans following your fighting career?
ASB: My mind’s not there, man. I’m fully invested in the present. Being a World Champion and taking the sport to India and being a part of all of that. After those goals are achieved, I will continue competing and I will set new goals.
Q. Can you see yourself fighting in India in the immediate future?
ASB: I can definitely see myself fighting in India. If it’s in the near-future, that would be even better, but that’s up to the company and the market. I wrestled in the Commonwealth Games in Delhi. It was a dream come true. Funny now, with Ritu (Phogat) on the roster. Her sisters were there on the Commonwealth Games. The story’s been told through Dangal. I’d love for us to lead the way with the sport of MMA in India.
Q. On a lighter note, living in Canada, what would you say is your favorite Indian dish?
ASB: Homemade, would be Alu Parantha is amazing. Anything made at home with the love of your mother is amazing.
Q. Finally, when you are not fighting, what are some of your hobbies?
ASB: Just spending time with family and your loved ones. It’s not about doing as much anymore. I travel because of the fight game, so when I’m not, I like to stay in town and be with my loved ones. That’s my favourite hobby of all.
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Edited by Kingshuk Kusari