Phucket Top Team’s Govind Ale returned to MMA action after several years away, but you wouldn’t know it based on his first round knockout at Kumite 1 League over the weekend.
On September 29, Indian MMA start-up Kumite 1 League held it’s very first show in Mumbai, India. The inaugural event, which was attended by boxing legend and league backer Mike Tyson, saw Team India take on Team UAE. In the second bout of the evening Govind Ale from Team India took on team UAE’s Mohamed Gamal. The fight was a return fight for Ale, who had not actively competed in MMA since 2016.
Not that you could tell. The result of the fight didn’t make it seem like Ale had been gone at all. The Team India fighter destroyed Gamal in the very first round, getting the win via knockout. The improved Ale’s record to 6-1, of which four of his victories have come via knockout.
After the bout Ale took time off to answer questions about future, his fight, Kumite 1 League and more.
1. You have not competed in MMA actively for the past two years now. How did it feel to get back in here?
Ale: This was an amazing experience. I was very excited for the fight. I was nervous as I was fighting after a long time but I had an amazing camp in Phuket Top Team, who were also my sponsors for this fight.
2. How was your experience with Kumite 1 League?
Ale: I want to thank Kumite 1 League. They gave Indian MMA fighters a chance to compete. Thank you.
3. You knocked out your opponent in the very first round. Was this the plan?
Ale: Actually before the fight I had suffered a chest injury. Hence, I wanted the fight to be a stand up fight. In stand-up matches knockouts are very common so I wasn’t surprised when I secured the KO. It was an easy fight for me and now I am coming for those guys who think they are the champions of Indian MMA.
4. What do you think is the future of Indian MMA?
Ale: Indian MMA has a very bright future. Indian fighters are going out to train. We have signed contracts with big major promotions. In India, MMA future is very bright.
5. Will you be continuing with Kumite 1 League?
Ale: Kumite is a very good option. Let’s see. I want to compete in the UFC. Maybe, I become the first Indian to win a belt in the UFC.
