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Matrix Fight Night associates with new MMA regulatory federation
Mumbai: Matrix Fight Night (MFN) announced the launch of its newest association with Fighters First Mixed Martial Arts Federation. The new body will be headed by Jackie Shroff, the highly beloved veteran Indian Film Industry star. With an unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of athleticism, and sport entertainment, and with the vision of fostering the growth of MMA in India, this federation aims to revolutionize the landscape of competitive martial arts.
The objective behind launching the tie-up with Fighters First Mixed Martial Arts Federation is another step towards making the Matrix Fight Night ecosystem even more complete in its goal towards ensuring a safe space for all amateur athletes in the MMA circuit. This association will further help MFN grow by providing a platform to identify and promote amateur talent from all across the country, as well as globally, thereby adding the best of the new generation of MMA athletes to the MFN pro-roster. The launch of this new MMA federation represents a pivotal moment in Indian MMA and the MFN journey by helping to consolidate their dedication to elevating fighters while reshaping the sport’s future.
The federation’s agenda includes a series of high-profile events, talent development programs, and strategic collaborations aimed at fostering a thriving community of fighters, coaches and fans. Through strategic partnerships and alliances with key stakeholders, MFN aims to promote inclusivity, diversity, and innovation within the MMA landscape.
Besides this, the federation will also be officiating at several grassroots programs to identify a new pool of talented upcoming fighters. Recently, the first MFN Contenders tournament was completed under the aegis of the new federation. The MFN Contenders tournament saw around 500 amateur athletes registering. At the end of the tournament, 13 boys and girls were awarded contracts to make their pro debuts at the big MFN shows next year.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
