Aizawl: UFC flyweight champion Joshua 'The Fearless' Van and Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma graced the MISMA Fight Night, organized by the Mizoram Mixed Martial Arts Association (MISMA), at the R Dengthuama Indoor Stadium in Mualpui, Aizawl, on Saturday night. CM Lalduhoma attended as the chief guest, while Van was the special guest.
CM Lalduhoma's Address
In his address, CM Lalduhoma said that honoring Joshua Van, the first-ever UFC Champion from Southeast Asia, was a matter of great pride for the people of Mizoram. He emphasized that the Mizos, Chins, and Kukis belong to one ethnic family and highlighted the importance of unity and brotherhood among these communities. Van, he said, stands before the world as a representative of his people, and his achievements strengthen the bonds and solidarity among these communities.
Lalduhoma praised Van's professional record of 17 victories, including 9 knockouts. He stated that such achievements go beyond statistics and serve as an inspiration and challenge to young people. He also shared his own achievement of earning an honorary 7th Dan Black Belt from the World Pro Taekwondo Headquarters Federation, noting that such heights require discipline, perseverance, and mental strength.
The CM expressed his delight at receiving an honorary Black Belt from Shariq Bapu, senior vice-president of the Asian MMA Federation. Lalduhoma further said that Van's success encourages Mizo youths to set higher goals and confidently face the challenges of the world. Expressing gratitude to the UFC champion, he assured Van that Mizoram would continue to support him in all his future endeavors.
Announcement of Sports Infrastructure
Sports and Youth Services Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar announced that Mizoram has secured approval under the North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme – Other Than Roads Infrastructure (NESIDS-OTRI) of the Ministry of DoNER for the construction of a Centre of Excellence for Boxing and other contact sports, at a cost of Rs. 38.39 crore.
Joshua Van's Address and Honors
Van also addressed the gathering. During the event, several local community organizations, including the Chin Refugee Committee of Mizoram (CRCM), Chin Community, Zofa Global, Zoro, the Muay Thai Association of Mizoram, and Assam MMA, presented tokens of appreciation and honors to the UFC champion.
Van's presence and the CM's speech underscored the significance of sports in fostering unity and providing inspiration to the youth of Mizoram.
