Mixed Martial Arts in Pakistan: The Inspiring Journey of Faster Arif As A Symbol of Resilience and Passion

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) may be just a sport to some, but for Faster Arif, it is a passion, identity, and lifeline. Hailing from the serene Swat Valley, his journey to national MMA arenas is a testament to unwavering dedication, relentless training, and the strength to endure profound personal loss. Through every setback, he has stood tall, embodying the true spirit of a fighter and making Faster Arif and mixed martial arts in Pakistan inseparable.

Rising Star On Scene of Mixed Martial Arts in Pakistan:

Faster Arif began his martial arts journey in 2006 in Saidu Sharif, Swat. Starting with Taekwondo, he quickly rose through the ranks, earning a black belt (1st Don from Kukkiwon) and becoming a national player who competed in 32 National Games. As he expanded into other disciplines such as Wushu, boxing, Jujutsu, and wrestling, his skills matured into a complete MMA arsenal - and he grew together with mixed martial arts in Pakistan.

His professional MMA debut was a landmark. He emerged victorious by T.K.O in VCL Showdown 2 in the Flyweight category, earning an undefeated record of 1-0. The VCL showdown 2 Karachi was covered by Metro News.

Arif is also a gold medalist in various combat sports across KP and Punjab, and he has received commendations from the Pakistan Army for his martial arts demonstrations.

Training and Mentorship:

The young MMA fighter Faster Arif's progress was bolstered by his training under renowned coaches like Shafi Ur Rehman, Master Chen, and Bashir Ahmed - the founder of MMA in Pakistan. Training at gyms such as Synergy and Activity, the young fighter embraced the rigorous physical and mental demands of MMA. The blend of striking and grappling fascinated him, and he dedicated himself to mastering every aspect of the sport.

His passion and discipline led him to not just compete, but also mentor others in the field. Today, he trains young fighters, spreading awareness of mixed martial arts in Pakistan, while instilling values of discipline, respect, and perseverance amongst his pupils.

Behind the Gloves: A Story of Pain and Loss

Behind the focused demeanor and fighting skills lies a heart scarred by tragedies. The mixed martial arts fighter Faster Arif's personal life was struck by devastating blows that would break even the strongest spirits. In February 2016, just before his first professional MMA fight, his sister suffered cardiac arrest, and his father experienced an ischemic stroke. 

The family kept this from him until after his fight. He won the match with a knockout, but his post-fight celebration ended in mourning at his sister’s funeral.

International Debut from Mixed Martial Arts in Pakistan: 

Despite many hardships, he was driven by an unwavering passion for the sport. He thrived on the adrenaline of competition, the camaraderie of his job, and the dream of one day holding a championship belt. In 2018, he received a sponsorship from Gulf Martial Arts and moved to Dubai to pursue his dream of reaching the international stage. He wanted to go to America from there. Unfortunately, he received the sad news that his uncle has been diagnosed with cancer and his younger brother with heart complications. 

The Future of His Agreement with Gulf Martial Arts: 

The condition of his brother kept on deteriorating. There was no one to look after him. Therefore, he had to cancel his agreement with Gulf Martial Arts and got back. Reaching Lahore, he was informed that his uncle, suffering from cancer, is also serious. He admitted him in Shaukat Khanum Cancer Hospital, Lahore. After 2 months he was shifted to Peshawar. Now he had another challenge: the treatment of his uncle and brother. 

Death of his Uncle and Brother In COVID-19:

To add insult to the injury, when the COVID-19 spread, both his uncle and brother contracted it. His uncle died on June 24, 2020, while his brother was still under treatment in different hospitals. In September 2021, his brother also breathed his last. The news had completely shattered this young athlete. 

These back-to-back tragedies severely impacted him emotionally and financially. His dreams were cut short when his mother asked him not to go back to Lahore due to the fragile health of his father. He had no option but to yield in to his mother and his father illness. 

Struggling Through Financial Hardships:

As his family’s sole provider now after the illness of his father, Faster Arif faced significant financial strain. He had no choice but to get back to Lahore. There he had to put his fighting career on hold and took up a job as a graphic designer at Happilac Paints in Lahore. 

Building a Legacy in Swat:

Even as he worked full-time, his father’s health continued to deteriorate, suffering a third ischemic stroke. He came back home. Now his parents wanted him to stay closer to them. Obeying their wishes, he established Faster Fit MMA Training Centre in Saidu Sharif, Swat. In the face of adversity, he showed extraordinary strength. The situation couldn't separate mixed martial arts and Faster Arif from each other. Not only did he take care of his family, but he also worked on keeping his MMA dreams alive. 

This dojo is not just a training ground but a beacon of hope for the youth of Swat. Through it, he trains aspiring fighters and promotes the discipline and philosophy of mixed martial arts in Pakistan. Meanwhile, he secured a govt job as a Junior Clerk, Commissioner office, Malakand Division, to ensure stable support for his family. Yet, his passion for MMA still continues to burn brightly the philosophy of mixed martial arts in Pakistan.

A True Fighter’s Spirit:

Though he had to step away from international competition, the spirit of MMA in him still remains unbroken. He dreams of making an international comeback and proving that passion, when combined with perseverance, can overcome even the darkest moments of life. Arif’s sacrifices, resilience, and undying love for MMA make his story far more than a sports biography - it’s a human story of hope, heartbreak, and heroism.

Inspiration for the Next Generation:

In a world often dazzled by fame and fortune, mixed martial arts and Faster Arif  stands as a rare example of inner strength and selflessness. He gave up his personal dreams temporarily for the well-being of his family, but in doing so, he won a different kind of battle - the kind that makes a true hero.

His journey is a powerful message to all the aspiring fighters and young dreamers that success isn’t always about trophies or titles. Sometimes, it’s about enduring the storms, and standing tall through sorrow, and never letting go of your inner fire.

Final Thought:

Faster Arif may have faced more battles outside the cage than inside it, but each one forged a warrior the world should not ignore. His legacy is not just in his medals but in the inspiration he gives to every young soul dreaming of something bigger. And though the path has been hard, he remains ready - for life, for MMA, and for the fight that lies ahead.

His Aim of Life:

Although he killed his MMA career for the sake of his family, but he failed to kill the sportsman within him. He is still thinking of making a debut at the International scene. As a true fighter, Faster Arif is sure he would make a comeback one day and his story would ever resonate with fans of mixed martial arts in Pakistan, not just because of his victories but also because of the sacrifices he rendered for his family.