Suniel Shetty on Kumite 1 Warrior Hunt: MMA has the potential to take over football and cricket

Actor and fitness enthusiast Suniel Shetty is all set to host the upcoming MMA reality show Kumite 1 Warrior Hunt. And he believes that the sport has the potential to become one of the most popular sports among youngsters, so much so that it could take over football and cricket.

Talking about the show, Suneil said, "I hope that Kumite 1 Warrior Hunt is the bridge that makes wrestling a household name in India. I truly believe that Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has the potential to become the biggest sport in India, which could easily take over football and cricket."

Revealing his emotional connection with the sport, the actor added, "Martial arts is a large part of who I am...and it was so even before I became an actor. The emotion, struggle, what the contestants want to achieve, their stories and humble background add to the beauty of the show. My India is unstoppable and these are the real heroes. I take inspiration from the contestants... and it's just begun," he said.

Suneil also said that the show is an opportunity to give back to the contestants, with jobs, nutrition and training facilities for their lifetime.

The six-episode series will give viewers a first-hand insight into the hardships faced by athletes in their MMA journey, with stories of survival, passion and courage. This, say the makers, makes the series relatable.

Hosted by MMA enthusiast and actor Suniel, MX Studios Original's Kumite 1 Warrior Hunt will see 16 top male and female MMA athletes compete to win the title and be trained by renowned MMA coaches Bharat Khandare and Pawan Maan. It will be available to stream on MX Player from February 12.