Indian MMA Fighter Sanyal Withdraws From Asian Games After Sauna Blackout

Indian mixed martial arts fighter Varun Sanyal withdrew from the 2026 Asian Games after being declared medically unfit following a blackout during a sauna weight cut. The incident occurred on Sunday, September 20, in Nagoya, Japan, ending his competition before he could compete in the men's traditional 77kg category. Sanyal, who was a late addition to the team, said he attempted the weight cut alone on two weeks' notice. He described the solo effort as "foolish" but stated he had no choice due to a lack of support staff. "I had no choice but to do it by myself. That's a question, to be honest, I would like the public to ask, why was I alone?" Sanyal said. According to reports, Sanyal experienced dizziness, lightheadedness, and muscle cramps about 30 minutes into a sauna session. He was found unconscious by a Nepalese athlete who woke him up. Sanyal was then taken to a hospital, where he received medical attention and was later returned to the athlete accommodation. The Indian Olympic Association stated that a medical examination and blood tests were normal, but Sanyal felt unfit to compete the following morning and withdrew after consulting his coach.