Hunza’s Maliha Ali Stuns Russian Champion at MMA Worlds
Maliha Ali’s Historic Victory: Hunza Fighter Defeats Russian Champion at IMMAF World Championships
Maliha Ali IMMAF World Championships victory has brought international recognition to Pakistan as the 24-year-old martial artist from Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan, defeated Russia’s two-time European champion Veronika Drozdova by split decision in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Competing in the women’s featherweight (65.8kg) category on November 3, 2026, Maliha delivered an impressive performance to secure her place in the quarter-finals of the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) World Championships.
The Pakistani fighter controlled the opening two rounds through effective striking and grappling. However, Drozdova mounted a strong comeback in the third round, making the contest highly competitive. Despite the Russian fighter’s late efforts, the judges awarded Maliha the victory by split decision.
Maliha’s achievement is particularly noteworthy given her established background in martial arts. She is a former wushu champion and national kickboxing gold medallist. Earlier this year, she also secured a silver medal at the IMMAF World Cup in Angola.
Following her victory, Maliha was scheduled to face Mexico’s Andrea Gabriela Guzman Salazar in the quarter-finals on November 4.
Her twin sister, Manesha Ali, is also representing Pakistan at the championships. Manesha, who won gold at the IMMAF World Cup in Angola, was scheduled to compete against Poland’s Martyna Caruk.
Both sisters are pursuing world championship titles, making their participation a significant moment for Pakistani women’s martial arts.
Maliha Ali’s success highlights the growing presence of athletes from Gilgit-Baltistan on the international sporting stage and offers renewed inspiration to young Pakistani women aspiring to compete in martial arts.
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