India, Sept. 21 -- Suchika Tariyal won India's first medal in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) at the Asian Games 2026, clinching bronze on Monday, though it was not without drama. The 36-year-old went down against Singapore's Teo Hui Hoon in the women's traditional -60kg semi-final. The seasoned Indian campaigner fought hard, taking the bout into overtime, but the judges ultimately ruled against her, leaving the fighter dejected as she walked back.

When the official called the two opponents to the stage to announce the winner, Suchika initially refused to go up, seemingly anticipating the verdict. However, after the Indian coaches asked her to do so, she hesitantly walked up, only to walk back in tears.

The 2026 Asian Games mark the debut of M...