Naga MMA fighter Kario Issac Maheo speaks to The Morung Express; encourages youth to ‘chase your dream!’
Shührazhüo A. Mao
Dimapur | January 24
Winner of India's first Super Fight League challengers, Kario Issac Maheo (33), recently made a comeback to the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) cage after a long break from sports due to injuries and personal reasons. Kario, who has played sports all his life, made an entry into SFL as the underdog without any training in MMA but eventually reigned supreme.
An interview published in February 2014 had informed readers that Kario made his debut in MMA on February 8, 2014 when his opponent broke his arm in the first round but Kario managed to fight through for two five minute rounds and landed a couple of hammer fists in the last moments of round two and won via Technical Knock Out. He is an alumnus of St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama.
Kario is now the Captain of the Goa Pirates, one of the 8 teams competing in the SFL. In an interview with The Morung Express, he talks about the SFL, his return to MMA and what he wants to inspire among Naga youth.
The Morung Express (MEx): You have returned to Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) after a long time. Why the long break?
Kario Issac Maheo (KIM): I look at fighting as the ultimate expression of sports between two human beings. My life has revolved around sports and I couldn’t find another way of living. Also, (right now) MMA is exploding in terms of growth and fan following and I am privileged to be a part of this movement. About the break…I have had my downs and had to pick myself up. That was the bigger fight than any physical fights I ever had.
MEx: What about your current position in the SFL?
KIM: I am a team member and fighter of Goa Pirates, one of the 8 teams in the SFL league. Owner is Preeti Mahapatra of Mahapatra Universals and brand ambassador is Jacqueline Fernandez. I got a direct entry like a lot of other prominent fighters.
MEx: What was the selection procedure?
KIM: It’s actually quite a long and complicated process, but I can tell you that the SFL was looking for prominent fighters in the country. I guess I am one.
MEx: You have expressed problems with the SFL organization before…
KIM: In the past I had differences with them but it’s all over now and I’m happy to be associated with them. They are promoting and doing the right thing. I can also say that I am happy with the amount they pay.
MEx: Is SFL going in the right direction in terms of Indian MMA?
KIM: In the words of SFL owner, Bill Dosanjh, they wanted to provide platform for the best MMA fighters in India. There are trials which are conducted for upcoming fighters from time to time. It is a good promotion.
MEx: What do you think about Naga fighters or other young Naga athletes?
KIM: I have always said we have so much potential when it comes to sports among our people. We should encourage sports as a career choice too. Not necessarily MMA, it’s a little extreme. But I want to set an example in my own way.
MEx: Any last words for fans back home?
KIM: I do want to pass on a message. Not last words but yeah, a thought-I have a perspective on life I would like to share…Sam Sheridan, author of ‘The Fighter’s heart’ said we all fight for something in our lives. I fight not because I like violence but because to me, it’s the ultimate sport. I am simply chasing a childhood dream of being a professional sportsperson. In one sentence….my message would be ‘Chase that dream!’
The reporter is currently an intern at
The Morung Express
