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Tensions Soar as Team Pakistan Collides with Team India at BRAVE CF 101

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BRAVE Combat Federation
November 06, 2025

The echoes of one of sport’s most storied rivalries are set to reignite once again, not on the cricket field this time, but inside the BRAVE Combat Federation cage. As BRAVE CF 101 approaches on November 9, 2025, in Bahrain, the stage is set for a South Asian spectacle: Pakistan’s Aqib Awan (7-3-0) will face India’s Punyajit Likharu (5-1-0) in a Bantamweight bout that has already become the talk of the region.

But this contest is more than a meeting between two rising athletes. It’s Team Rizwan vs. Team Anshul, a symbolic clash between two emerging MMA powerhouses representing nations whose sporting rivalries have captivated fans for decades.

In recent years, Pakistani fighters have enjoyed the upper hand inside the BRAVE CF cage, notching several key wins against Indian counterparts. Fighters from Fight House Islamabad have consistently impressed with their grit, finishing ability, and composure on the global stage, a testament to Pakistan’s rapid evolution as an MMA nation.

Across the border, however, India’s combat sports momentum has never been stronger. In cricket, India continues to dominate the rivalry with unmatched consistency in global tournaments, setting a benchmark for sporting excellence across disciplines. Now, that same spirit of competitive pride fuels India’s MMA prospects, as the country looks to level the score in combat sports.

Representing India is Punyajit Likharu, a young and technical Bantamweight from Soma Fight Club and Crosstrain Fight Club, cornered by India’s UFC star Anshul Jubli. Likharu brings composure and precision, embodying the new generation of disciplined Indian fighters looking to leave their mark internationally.

Standing across the cage is Pakistan’s Aqib Awan, a powerful and aggressive finisher backed by his mentor Rizwan Ali, the fighter who famously called out Jubli after his win in August 2024, sparking a friendly yet fiery exchange that caught global attention. 

Now, that online banter turns into a real-world collision. Team Rizwan vs. Team Anshul has transcended social media and entered the BRAVE CF cage, with both nations eager to see which corner emerges victorious.

Hosting this matchup on neutral ground in Bahrain, a nation that has united athletes from 38 countries through the BRAVE platform, adds a special significance. It’s a fitting arena for a rivalry that goes beyond borders — fierce in competition, yet respectful in spirit.

As fight night approaches, tensions rise and expectations soar. Will Pakistan’s recent dominance in BRAVE CF continue, or will India’s fighting pride script a comeback to mirror their cricketing supremacy?

One thing is certain, when Team Rizwan and Team Anshul collide in Bahrain, the rivalry between two nations will enter a new chapter, and the world will be watching every punch, every takedown, and every moment of history in the making.

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ABOUT BRAVE CF

BRAVE Combat Federation, founded in 2016, is the fastest-growing MMA organization globally, dedicated to transforming mixed martial arts from an event-driven business into a comprehensive sports ecosystem. With a vision to provide fighters worldwide a platform to showcase their talents, BRAVE CF has hosted 99 events across a record-breaking 38 countries.

The organization boasts the world's largest MMA development program, featuring over 800 fighters from 90+ nations, supporting athletes from grassroots to professional stardom. BRAVE CF actively supports efforts for SportsAccord recognition and potential Olympic inclusion of MMA.

As the leading sports media property in the Middle East and holding the largest market share in Asia and Europe, BRAVE CF broadcasts to over 160+ countries, reaching 1.7 Billion households worldwide.