Introduction to the Flyweight Showdown at MFN 17
Matrix Fight Night (MFN) is back with its 17th edition and is all set to ignite the Indian MMA scene on August 2, 2025 at the Noida Indoor Stadium. The spotlight is on the highly anticipated flyweight bout between India’s own Angad Bisht and Tajikistan’s Firdavs Zaripov.
This is a do or die moment for both the fighters with Bisht looking to cement his legacy and Zaripov to make a statement on the international stage. As Indian MMA is gaining traction globally, this fight at MFN 17 is going to be electrifying and showcase the growing talent of regional fighters. In this blog post we will break down the Angad Bisht vs Firdavs Zaripov matchup, analyze their strengths and give you fight predictions to stay ahead of the MMA news curve.
The Rise of Indian MMA and Matrix Fight Night
Matrix Fight Night, founded in 2019 by Tiger Shroff, Ayesha Shroff and Krishna Shroff, has become the cornerstone of Indian MMA. With 16 events till March 2025, MFN has elevated the sport in South Asia by providing a platform to both local and international fighters. MFN has produced UFC talents like Anshul Jubli and Puja Tomar, making it a breeding ground for world class MMA stars. MFN 17 continues this legacy with a stacked fight card, two title fights and the return of Angad Bisht, a fan favourite and a key figure in Indian MMA.
The flyweight division is known for its fast paced action and technical skill and is a perfect showcase for MFN’s mission to highlight top talent. Angad Bisht vs Firdavs Zaripov is a fight that embodies MFN’s promise of high stakes and exciting bouts. Let’s get into the fighters and what they bring to the table.
Who is Angad Bisht?
Angad Bisht from Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand is one of the top MMA fighters in India. With a professional record of 10-4-0 he is a versatile and tough competitor. From a gym trainer to a flyweight champion he is a living example of his determination and unconventional life. He won the MFN flyweight title in November 2022 by defeating Egypt’s Mohamed Gamal at MFN 10 and proved he can handle international competition.
Angad Bisht’s Strengths
- Weight Class Hopper: Bisht is the first MFN fighter to win in three consecutive weight divisions, he is a chameleon.
- Mental Toughness: He is known for his “you against yourself” mindset and credits meditation for his composure under pressure as seen in his title fight against Gamal.
- Finisher: With four finishes in his last four wins he has proved he can finish fights whether by knockout or submission.
- Experience: He has fought in promotions like Brave Combat Federation and Super Fight League and brings a lot of cage experience to MFN 17.
Bisht’s stint in Road to UFC where he got a first round knockout against John Dave Almanza but lost in a split decision has only made him sharper. His return to MFN is an opportunity to reassert his dominance in flyweight division and potentially get another shot at the UFC.
Who is Firdavs Zaripov?
Firdavs Zaripov from Tajikistan is not a well known fighter globally but his inclusion in MFN 17 shows he has got the skills. Not much info is available on his professional record but he is being pitted against a top fighter like Bisht so he must be a tough challenger. Tajikistan has produced tough and gritty fighters in combat sports and Zaripov will bring an aggressive and well rounded game to the cage.
Firdavs Zaripov’s Strengths
- Hunger for Recognition: As an underdog he has the chance to make a name for himself by beating a top ranked fighter like Bisht.
- International Experience: Fighting in India against a local star requires mental toughness and Zaripov is willing to take on this challenge so he must be confident in his preparation.
- Unpredictability: With less public data on his fighting style Zaripov can catch Bisht off guard with some unique techniques or strategies.
Zaripov is a wildcard since he is not well known but his inclusion in MFN 17 shows he has got the skills. This might be the breakout moment for the Tajik fighter.
Fight Breakdown: Angad Bisht vs Firdavs Zaripov
The Angad Bisht vs Firdavs Zaripov fight is a battle of a proven champion against an ambitious challenger. Here’s how the fight might play out based on their strengths and styles.
Striking
Bisht has shown he’s a good striker with crisp boxing and well timed kicks to control the range and pace. He can mix up strikes and stay calm under pressure which gives him an edge in stand up exchanges. Zaripov is less documented but will likely rely on aggressive striking to close the distance and disrupt Bisht’s rhythm. If Zaripov can land early he might test Bisht’s durability but Bisht has faced top tier strikers like Mohamed Gamal and has shown he can take the heat.
Grappling and Ground Game
Bisht’s grappling has been the key to his recent finishes with a strong ground and pound and submission skills. His training in Thailand at Bang Tao has made him seamless in transitioning between striking and grappling. Zaripov’s ground game is unknown but fighters from Central Asia often have a wrestling or sambo background which could make for an interesting grappling exchange. If Zaripov can take him down he might neutralize Bisht’s striking advantage but Bisht’s defensive grappling will keep him out of danger.
Fight IQ and Strategy
Bisht’s mental strength backed by meditation gives him an edge in reading his opponents and adapting mid fight. His ability to stay calm as seen in his title win over Gamal will be crucial against an unpredictable opponent like Zaripov. Zaripov will need to bring a game plan to avoid Bisht’s traps especially in later rounds where Bisht’s cardio and experience will shine.
Key Factors to Watch in Angad Bisht vs Firdavs Zaripov
Home Crowd Advantage: Fighting in India Bisht will have the support of a loud crowd which will boost his performance.
Cardio: Flyweight fights go the distance often and Bisht’s cardio will be key if it goes late.
Bisht’s Finishing Instinct: Will Bisht finish early or will Zaripov push him to a decision?
Zaripov’s Aggression: Will Zaripov’s hunger to prove himself lead to a high pressure approach that catches Bisht off guard?
Angad Bisht vs Firdavs Zaripov – Fight Predictions
Hard to predict Angad Bisht vs Firdavs Zaripov as there’s not much info on Zaripov’s style. But based on Bisht’s record and current form, he’s the favourite. Here’s how the fight might go:
Upset Potential: Zaripov’s best chance is an early KO or catching Bisht in a submission during a scramble. As an underdog, his unpredictability is his biggest asset.
Scenario 1: Bisht by Finish: Bisht’s experience and finishing ability makes him a strong candidate to finish the fight early, likely in the 2nd round. His ability to mix striking and grappling could overwhelm Zaripov if the Tajik fighter leaves openings during exchanges.
Scenario 2: Bisht by Decision: If Zaripov is durable and avoids early mistakes, Bisht’s superior fight IQ and cardio could lead to a unanimous decision win. Bisht’s ability to control the pace and land cleaner shots will sway the judges.
Given Bisht’s 4-1 record in his last five fights and his recent knockout win in Road to UFC, we predict Angad Bisht to win via TKO in the second round. However, Zaripov’s potential to surprise should not be underestimated, making this a must-watch bout for MMA fans.
Why MFN 17 is big for Indian MMA
MFN 17 is not just a fight card; it’s a landmark for Indian MMA. With two title fights and Angad Bisht back, it’s a statement of Indian fighters’ global reach. Disney+ Hotstar partnership means fans all over India can watch live, and that’s a big boost to the sport. Bisht’s performance can open up another UFC opportunity and Zaripov’s performance can put Tajikistan on the MMA map.
The event also shows MFN’s commitment to developing talent through Contenders series and international fights. As Indian fighters like Bisht, Anshul Jubli and Puja Tomar are making waves, MFN 17 is the proof of the sport’s future in India.