Siddharth Singh stands as a pivotal figure in the burgeoning Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) scene in India. As a fighter, coach, and entrepreneur, he has dedicated himself to nurturing talent and popularizing these combat sports across the nation. His journey, marked by personal achievements and a commitment to grassroots development, positions him as a vanguard in India's MMA and BJJ revolution.
Singh's involvement in combat sports began early. While at boarding school, he boxed, later expanding his martial arts horizons to include Muay Thai and, most significantly, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu during his time in the UK. This exposure led him to leave his job and return to India, driven by a vision to cultivate a thriving fight scene.
A key aspect of Singh's influence lies in his accomplishments as a BJJ practitioner. He holds the distinction of being India's first brown belt in BJJ and has secured multiple titles, including ADCC Taiwan and British BJJ Champion. He has also been a nine-time Indian BJJ and Submission Grappling Champion. These accolades have established him as a top-ranked competitive grappler, not just in India but also in Asia.
Beyond his personal achievements, Singh has been instrumental in developing the next generation of Indian fighters. He founded Crosstrain Fight Club in 2013, which has since expanded to multiple franchises in North India. His gym has become a hub for aspiring MMA and BJJ athletes, providing them with the training and mentorship needed to compete at higher levels. Fighters like Anshul Jubli and Puja Tomar, the only two Indians to currently hold a UFC contract, have been coached by Singh.
Singh's coaching philosophy extends beyond physical training. He emphasizes a holistic approach, incorporating elements of self-defense and mental fortitude. He recognized a gap in qualified MMA coaches in India and has worked to fill that void by guiding upcoming fighters and building a system for identifying and nurturing potential UFC contenders.
Singh also promotes MMA and BJJ through ADCC India, organizing events and competitions to increase visibility and participation in these sports. Despite facing challenges such as limited government support and a fragmented martial arts landscape, Singh has remained steadfast in his mission. He advocates for the growth of MMA and BJJ at the grassroots level, aiming to create a sustainable ecosystem for fighters in India. He has also chosen to remain independent from specific federations, allowing his fighters to compete more freely.
Singh acknowledges that building a strong MMA and BJJ culture in India requires time and dedication. His ultimate goal is to see an Indian UFC champion, and he is committed to laying the foundation for that achievement through his various initiatives. His efforts are not only shaping the careers of individual fighters but also contributing to the broader development of combat sports in India.