Itanagar hosts major mixed martial arts event with 10 bouts

The fourth edition of Aturto, a mixed martial arts (MMA) event, was held here on April 25, featuring 10 bouts and 20 fighters from across the Northeast and other parts of the country.
 

Held at the Artisan and Handicraft Exhibition Centre in Chimpu, the event marked the opening round of the Flyweight Grand Prix aimed at crowning the promotion’s first-ever flyweight champion.
 

In the main event, Limasunep Imchen defeated Nisham Waii via first-round stoppage. Fahad Khan registered a majority decision win over Ashish Rawat, while Liannun Suantak secured a submission victory against Jony Darlong.
 

Amit Amauriya advanced to the semi-finals after his opponent was disqualified for missing weight.
 

The card also featured a professional kickboxing bout, in which Diyo Rimo secured a first-round knockout against Ayushman Mukherjee.
 

Five semi-professional bouts were held, showcasing emerging regional talent. Among the winners were Priyanshu Sahu, Damdo Dulom, Kenjo Lollen, Thangu Mili and Tulu Kina.
 

The Flyweight Grand Prix is currently at the quarter-final stage, with the semi-finals scheduled for August and the final expected in December.
 

Organisers said the event also introduced a new matchmaking format allowing fighters to choose their opponents, adding a competitive edge to the tournament.
 

Speaking on the sidelines, Aturto CEO Higio Tarak said the promotion, launched in 2023, has organised 10 events so far and aims to expand with government support. He added that while semi-professional fighters are provided logistical support, professional fighters receive financial rewards, with the eventual champion set to receive Rs 5 lakh.
 

Social activist Tassar Jina said the platform is helping nurture local talent by providing structured exposure and opportunities in combat sports.
 

Aturto, which means “be strong” in the Nyishi dialect, has grown into a regional platform attracting fighters from across India.