Varun Sanyal out of Asian Games after passing out during weight cut

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The medical document accessed by this paper mentions in the details section that he experienced dizziness while undergoing the weight cut.

“While undergoing weight loss, including food and fluid restriction, experienced dizziness, lightheadedness, and muscle cramps 30 minutes after taking a sauna,” the document translated from Japanese stated.

After Varun passed out, he was found by a Nepali athlete who woke him up.

“He passed out after the weight cut but the Nepali athlete woke him up, he managed to call the federation President Nikhil Kunder,” another source close to the development said. “He was taken to the hospital but right now he is stable and there is nothing serious. The doctors have asked him to replenish his salts orally and no additional treatment is needed.”

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) later said in a statement that Sanyal’s troubles started while in sauna on Saturday. “Varun Sanyal suffered from generalized cramps and bodayache while in the sauna last evening in his cruise accommodation. He underwent a medical examination and precautionary blood tests, which were normal. Despite rest, the following morning, he felt not fully fit to participate in a combat sport. After consultation with his coach, he withdrew on medical grounds,” it said.

Varun was one of the two Indian MMA fighters participating in the Asian Games and was a late addition to the squad.

He had secured his Asian Games berth after claiming a bronze medal at the Asian Championship in China.

The other MMA fighter, Suchika Tariyal, won her quarter-final bout and entered the semis in the women’s traditional 60kg to confirm a medal for India.