Limasunep Imchen Secures Spot in Aturto MMA Flyweight Grand Prix Final

Kohima, India Aug 24, 2026 ALN: DIMAPUR, AUG 23: Team The Combat Academy (TCA) fighter Limasunep Imchen has secured his place in the final of the Aturto MMA 8-Man Flyweight Grand Prix, following a dramatic turn of events at the tournament’s semi-finals in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, on August 22.

Limasunep, who represents The Combat Academy (TCA) and has been training at Warriors Cove MMA in Delhi for the past four months, was scheduled to compete in the semi-final of the highly anticipated Flyweight Grand Prix. This tournament has garnered significant attention within the MMA community, as it showcases emerging talent and serves as a platform for fighters to gain recognition on a national level.

However, the bout did not take place after his scheduled opponent failed to make the required weight during the official weigh-in, and Limasunep was awarded the qualification to the tournament final, where he will compete for the prestigious Aturto Flyweight Championship Belt and a cash prize of Rs. 5 lakh. The failure to meet the weight limit is a common challenge in combat sports, where strict regulations are in place to ensure fair competition and fighter safety. Weight management is crucial for fighters, and failing to make weight can result in forfeiture of the match, as seen in this instance.

The final is scheduled to take place in December 2026, giving Limasunep the opportunity to cap off his Grand Prix campaign by becoming the tournament champion. This timeline also allows him additional time for preparation, training, and strategizing for the final bout. The stakes are high, as winning the championship would not only enhance his personal career but also elevate the status of The Combat Academy within the competitive landscape of Indian mixed martial arts.

The qualification marks another significant milestone for Team TCA and reflects the growing presence of its fighters on the national MMA circuit. The academy has been instrumental in nurturing talent and providing fighters with the necessary resources and training to compete at high levels. Limasunep has been preparing extensively for the tournament during his training stint at Warriors Cove MMA, sharpening his skills alongside his continued association with TCA. This training facility is known for producing skilled fighters and has contributed to the success of numerous competitors in the sport.

Thanmi Angkang Competes in Mumbai

Meanwhile, another member of the TCA fight team, Thanmi Angkang, represented the academy at the Mixed Martial Arts Fight Night, held as part of Royal Enfield GRRR Underground Nights in Mumbai on August 23. This event is part of a series of fight nights that aim to promote MMA and provide fighters with opportunities to showcase their skills in front of a live audience.

Thanmi faced Altamash Siddiqui of Maharashtra in a professional Flyweight bout. Despite his opponent coming in almost 1 kg over the expected official weight limit, Thanmi accepted the fight and went ahead with the contest. Accepting fights under such circumstances showcases the resilience and determination of fighters, as they often face various challenges in pursuit of their careers. This bout, only the second professional fight of Thanmi’s career, went the full three rounds before he was handed a unanimous decision loss.

While the outcome was not in his favor, the experience gained from competing at this level is invaluable for Thanmi, who has been an integral part of the TCA fight team for the past four years and also heads the grappling classes at The Combat Academy’s Duncan Branch. His role as a coach and mentor to younger fighters adds to his experience and understanding of the sport, which is essential for growth in MMA.

With Limasunep now secured in the Aturto MMA Flyweight Grand Prix final and Thanmi continuing to gain experience on the professional circuit, Team TCA continues to strengthen its presence in Indian mixed martial arts and carry the academy’s name onto the national stage. The success and challenges faced by TCA fighters reflect the broader landscape of MMA in India, where the sport is rapidly gaining popularity and recognition.

The rise of MMA in India has been marked by an increasing number of promotions, events, and opportunities for fighters to compete. Organizations like Aturto MMA play a crucial role in this growth by providing platforms for fighters to showcase their talents and pursue their dreams. As more athletes like Limasunep and Thanmi emerge from academies like TCA, the future of Indian MMA looks promising, with the potential for more fighters to gain international recognition and success.

In conclusion, the journey of Limasunep Imchen and Thanmi Angkang exemplifies the dedication and hard work required in the world of mixed martial arts. As they continue to train and compete, they not only represent their academy but also inspire a new generation of fighters in India. The upcoming final for Limasunep presents an exciting opportunity for him to make history and further establish the legacy of The Combat Academy in the competitive world of MMA.