Trailblazing Pakistani female MMA fighter breaks barriers… and bones
Anita Karim, Pakistan’s pioneering female MMA fighter, grew up in the rugged northern region of Gilgit-Baltistan, where she honed her combat skills by sparring with her three older brothers. Despite early resistance from her community, who believed MMA was a sport for men, she broke barriers and became the first woman from Pakistan to compete internationally in MMA, joining Asia’s top promotion, ONE Championship.
Her journey hasn’t been easy; in a country where female participation in sports is rare, Karim’s passion and dedication to MMA stood out. She now trains at a gym in Islamabad, where she has earned the nickname “the arm collector” for her brutal expertise in the armlock submission move, which has left opponents with injured arms.
Surprisingly shy outside the ring, Karim’s brother Uloomi, who coaches her, says her focus and determination have always been evident, and their family supported her from the start. Karim is not just a fighter but a role model for other women, particularly in her home region, where female modesty codes are more relaxed and where women like her sisters Maliha and Maneesha Ali are also excelling in sports.
Anita is not only fighting in the cage but for the empowerment of women in Pakistan, teaching self-defense and confidence, especially in a country where public harassment of women is widespread. Despite the challenges, including early criticism, she now enjoys the pride of her community and is an inspiration for young women dreaming of professional sports careers in a society where opportunities are few.
