ISLAMABAD: Manisha Ali is a Pakistani mixed martial arts fighter who is gaining international recognition after winning gold at the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) World Cup in Angola, becoming one of the country’s most promising names in the sport.
Born in the mountainous region of northern Pakistan, Manisha says the challenging environment of her hometown helped shape her strength and determination.
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“We are from mountainous regions of Pakistan, the northern areas of Pakistan. There, the weather and everything is hard, but people are so strong there,” she said in a video message before her international debut.
A decade-long martial arts journey
Manisha’s journey began not with MMA, but with Taekwondo. Alongside her twin sister Maliha Ali, she spent around 10 years training in martial arts before moving towards mixed martial arts competition.
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The sisters have represented Pakistan in various combat sports before making their mark in mixed martial arts. Both train at Brave Gym in Lahore and have emerged as notable figures in Pakistan’s female combat sports movement.
Twin sister, coach and training partner
For Manisha, her twin sister Maliha is more than just a teammate.
“It’s a great privilege to have a twin. I’m so blessed to have her because she is my coach, my training partner, and my best friend as well,” she said.
The sisters have often competed and trained together, supporting each other through the demands of professional fighting.
Breaking through on the global stage
Manisha made a major impact at the IMMAF World Cup in Luanda, Angola, defeating host fighter Leonela Isabel Blaiye by second-round submission to claim the gold medal. She secured victory with a standing guillotine finish late in the bout.
🇵🇰 Pakistan’s Manisha Ali has secured gold at the 2026 MMA Open Cup in Luanda, Angola.
She claimed victory with a second-round guillotine submission, delivering a strong performance on the international stage.
The tournament showcases emerging MMA talent from around the world,… pic.twitter.com/yYfWXFdfRq
— Naveed Khan (@i_Naveediqbal) September 22, 2026
The achievement has strengthened her ambition to win an IMMAF World Championship title and become the first Pakistani female fighter to compete in the UFC.
From the mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan to international arenas, Manisha Ali’s journey reflects Pakistan’s growing presence in global mixed martial arts.
