Adam fights for more than himself in Nagoya

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SEA Games silver medallist Adam Akasyah (pic) may be the only Malaysian representative in the Asian Games ju-jitsu competition but he is literally fighting for his entire community.

The 25-year-old has built up high hopes of making an impact in his Asian Games debut in Nagoya in the below 77kg category, thanks to an intensive training camp put in place over the last eight weeks.

Nursultan Amangeldiyev, a coach from Kazakhstan and a multiple world champion, was brought in to help prepare Adam.

Adam’s participation for the Asian Games was also made possible with financial help from the ju-jitsu community, which enabled him to focus on full-time training.

“In my situation, it literally takes a village to get me to this level.

“This is definitely bigger than the SEA Games and preparation needs to be solid and non disruptive from the start.

“The funding for the camp came from my parents, supportive patrons from other ju-jitsu teams in the country and also IZZA MMA, the team that I work at currently.

“IZZA MMA gave me the flexibility to focus 100 percent on the training camp without worrying about my work.

“A huge part of my preparation was made possible by my training partners and students, who went above and beyond to support me throughout the camp.

“A core group showed up day in and day out, attending multiple sessions each week and consistently helping me prepare, push my limits, and stay focused on the goal.

“My parents are the two people who have played the biggest role in getting me to where I am today.

“They’ve always been my main pillars of support

“And through all the ups and downs, my wife Dylea Harasya Chin has been my rock.

“A former athlete herself, she makes sure my nutrition is on point, that I come home to a peaceful environment where I can rest, and keeps me emotionally grounded among other things,” added Adam, who is also a coaching instructor.

Adam has made the podium three times at the SEA Games but is aware the Asian Games will be a different cup of tea altogether.

Adam was given the chance to compete at the Asian Games after securing a top five finish at the Asian Championships in Jordan last year.

“To be honest, I try not to focus too much on the outcome. The only thing I can control is my performance, and I know that when I step out there, I’ll give it everything I have”, added Adam, who tipped South Korea, United Arab Emirates and Kazakhstan as the ones to beat in his weight class.