Aizawl, November 28: Mizo martial artist Nazareth Lalthazuala Hmar has created history by becoming the first fighter from Mizoram to compete in ONE Championship, Asia’s premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organisation. The 22-year-old made a sensational debut at ONE Friday Fights 135 in Bangkok, Thailand, where he delivered a spectacular 16-second knockout victory over Japanese opponent Masaki Suzuki in the Strawweight division (52.2–56.7 kg).
Competing under Team Joseph and training out of Dojang MMA, Nazareth stunned the global MMA audience by ending the bout almost instantly, showcasing exceptional striking precision and explosive power. ONE Championship itself highlighted the feat, describing the young Mizo fighter's performance as “Gone in 17 seconds - a lightning-fast KO.”
Nazareth, son of Lalhratthanga, hails from Phuaibuang village and currently resides in Zemabawk, Aizawl. His rise to international competition has been built on a remarkable record on home soil:
• Three-time State MMA Champion
• Three-time National MMA Champion
• Mizoram Fight League Flyweight Champion
With his latest victory, Nazareth now holds an impressive undefeated professional MMA record of 6–0.
His achievement has ignited widespread celebration across Mizoram and among Mizo communities worldwide. Leaders, sports enthusiasts, and MMA followers have expressed immense pride, calling his victory a new chapter for Mizo representation on the global combat sports stage.
Congratulating him, several prominent voices noted that Nazareth’s success has “ushered in a new era for Mizos in international combat sports,” inspiring countless young athletes across the state.
Nazareth has also officially signed a professional contract with ONE Championship, marking another historic milestone as the first-ever Mizo fighter to be contracted by the organisation.
As he looks ahead to future bouts on one of the world’s biggest MMA platforms, Nazareth Lalthazuala stands as a rising star and a symbol of aspiration for young martial artists from the region.
