Shillong, June 29: In a night that blended adrenaline, emotion, and history, Meghalaya’s own Johnny Nongrum bowed out of the professional MMA cage with a triumphant 100th career victory, defeating six-time national champion Anurag Singh of Uttarakhand with a spectacular Technical Knockout (TKO) at the inaugural Shillong Cage Fighting Championship on Saturday.

Held at the Lariti Multipurpose Theatre in Mawkasiang, the event witnessed an electric atmosphere as the 36-year-old veteran was cheered on by a jam-packed audience. The crowd roared as Nongrum dominated the final moments of the bout, sealing a storybook ending to a career that has spanned over a decade.

“It’s a dream to end it this way—100 wins, right here in my home state,” Nongrum said, fighting back tears during the post-fight interview. “I’ve given everything to this sport, and now I want to give back in a different way.”

With that, Nongrum made a heartfelt announcement – he plans to step into a coaching role and help train the next generation of fighters from Meghalaya and the Northeast. “We have incredible talent here,” he said. “All they need is the right guidance, the right platform. I want to be part of building that future,” he added.

His declaration drew loud applause from the crowd, underlining the deep respect he commands not only as a fighter, but as a mentor and role model.

The fight was the highlight of the Shillong Cage Fighting Championship’s debut edition, which brought together athletes from six Indian states, including three from the Northeast. Despite logistical hurdles—late timing, high ticket prices, and a venue located outside city limits—the event drew an overwhelming crowd, affirming the region’s growing passion for mixed martial arts.

Top local fighters such as Ribhalang Sunn, Darren Kharshandy, Ronald Khyriem, and David Chhangte also impressed the crowd with powerful performances.

Present to witness the landmark event were Sports Minister Shakliar Warjri, Health Minister Dr. M Ampareen Lyngdoh, and other dignitaries.

Winners List:
Flyweight: Nazareth Lalthazuala, Liannun Suantak, Donbok Nongrum, Lalnunsanga, Lalmangaihzuala, Jitesh Sarkar, Angel Patil, Rishanskhem Ripon
Bantamweight: David Chhangte, Darren Kharshandy
Middleweight: Johnny Nongrum
Atomweight: Ribhalang Sunn
Strawweight: Ronald Khyriem, Synrop Wahlang

The championship featured a total prize pool of ₹5 lakh, encouraging both veterans and emerging talents.

As Nongrum exited the cage for the final time, fans stood in ovation—not just for the fighter, but for the legacy he leaves behind and the future he now hopes to shape as a mentor.

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