Indian MMA fighter Anshul Jubli has quickly become a beacon of pride for the nation’s combat sports community, despite experiencing both the highest highs and the lowest lows in his nascent UFC career.
Early Success and a Memorable Debut
Jubli burst onto the UFC stage with an impressive debut at the UFC APEX in February 2023. In his first bout, he delivered a stunning performance by handing his opponent, Jeka Saragih, the first TKO loss of Saragih’s career. He earned a $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus and fulfilled a lifelong dream: securing a UFC contract.
“It was one of the best nights of my life,” Jubli recalled, adding that meeting Dana White made the achievement feel surreal.
A Devastating Loss and Personal Growth
However, the journey took a painful turn eight months later at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi when Jubli suffered his first professional loss. Mike Breeden knocked him out in the third round after weighing in slightly over the limit. The defeat, which came on the heels of a promising start, hit Jubli hard, and for a month, the loss haunted him.
Reflecting on that period, he explained:
“For a month, it haunted me. But when I returned home, my friends and family treated me just the same as before. It made me realize that I shouldn’t overthink it. I just have to keep training hard and focus on what I do best.”
Preparing for a Big Return in Sydney
Now, after more than a year away managing injuries and setbacks, Jubli is buzzing with anticipation ahead of his return fight during fight week in Sydney. The atmosphere, filled with the high energy of fighters and intense training sessions, has reinvigorated him.
“I’m actually very excited. I love fight week—even though the weight cutting and the training are tough, the energy here is incredible,” Jubli said.
His upcoming bout is set against Australian debutant Quillan Salkilld, a former champion from Australia’s Eternal MMA promotion who earned his UFC spot via Dana White’s Contender Series. While Jubli respects his opponent, he is confident that his own experience and skill set give him the edge.
“I think he’s a good, complete fighter. But I have more experience—my grappling and boxing are stronger. I’ll impose my will and skills, and win this fight.”
Handling the Pressure of Being an Underdog
Jubli acknowledges that fighting on home soil might favor his opponent due to crowd support. To prepare, he has even incorporated simulated crowd noise into his training sessions using headphones, a strategy designed to accustom him to the boos he might face.
“I’ve always been an underdog, taking on challenges where the odds are stacked against me. I’m used to it now, and I plan to prove them wrong.”
Flying the Flag for India
Proud to represent India on the world stage, Jubli remains unfazed by the extra scrutiny of being one of the few Indian athletes competing at the highest level of combat sports.
“It doesn’t feel like pressure at all—it just makes me happy. I carry the hope and belief of so many UFC fans in India, and I’m fighting for them,” he said.
As he gears up for his next fight, Jubli is determined to showcase his full abilities and secure his second UFC victory. His journey, marked by resilience and the courage to overcome adversity, continues to inspire fans and aspiring athletes across India.
With his eyes firmly set on the future, Anshul Jubli is ready to prove that his talent and determination can defy the odds—even as an underdog.
