Pakistan’s-origin Tam Khan is a former professional mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter, bodybuilder and fitness enthusiast.
He competed in MMA across the world before retiring in 2010. He introduced MMA in the United Arab Emirates set up the first MMA training academy in the region. He owns a fitness gym in Dubai where he is currently based.
Tam was recently cast along with superstar actor Jackie Chan in the action film ‘Vanguard’. MM News speaks to him on his inspirations, experience working in the film and future endeavours.
MM News: How did you develop an interest in mixed martial arts (MMA)?
Tam Khan: I watched UFC and fell in love with the sport. Watching Royce Gracie beat four men in one event was out of this world. It changed my life and was the start of my passion.
MM News: Why did you leave Pakistan? What is your fondest memory?
Tam Khan: My parents left in 1981 and gave birth to me in London. I regularly visit Pakistan every year particularly Peshawar. I’m always a proud Pashtun from Peshawar and love the culture of Pakistan.
It’s always amazing to see and visit my family. I have even worked with young upcoming fighters from the region trying to help them come to the UAE and get recognition.
MM News: How did you get your first break in Hollywood?
Tam Khan: A casting agency based in Dubai called Mixfame contacted me for a role. They felt it suited my image and they were right.
MM News: Which actor, wrestler or celebrity do you admire?
Tam Khan: I have always admired Michael Jackson and Muhammad Ali. They were always my heroes as a child. As far as wrestlers go, it would have to be the Ultimate Warrior.
MM News: How was your experience working with Jackie Chan?
Tam Khan: It was a true honour working with a living legend. For me, he will always be one of the greats of action cinema. I’m blessed and humbled to have had the opportunity to have worked with him in a movie.
MM News: How do you maintain your daily fitness routine?
Tam Khan: I train regularly and also practice intermittent fasting. This allows me to stay in shape even if my diet isn’t so strict. I train twice a day, in the morning I train cardio and in the evenings either weightlifting or MMA.
MM News: Do you believe stardom has impacted you?
Tam Khan: No I don’t even believe I am a star. For me stars are the likes of Imran Khan or Muhammad Ali or those who change people’s lives. These are truly stars. I’m just a normal person trying to make myself better.
MM News: How do you split time between work, fitness and family?
Tam Khan: It can be difficult but my family is always a priority. God and then family. I ensure to give them enough attention and make from my priority.
MM News: Will you work in Pakistan if there is an opportunity?
Tam Khan: Yes off course. My goal is to set up some academies and events there and scout for the next talents in the region. I also want to promote the beauty of the country in a movie project one day.
MM News: What is your one dream that has remained unfulfilled?
Tam Khan: My one and only dream is always to get to heaven Inshallah. That’s my dream being a Muslim and I hope I do enough good deeds in this life to achieve this.
As for goals, I am content in all I have achieved and set out to do. I’m a simple man and do what I love and love what I do.
MM News: Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?
Tam Khan: I just hope I’m alive and healthy. Raise my daughters well and look I want to after my family. If I can use my status to help others then I’ll always do that also. That’s my aim.
MM News: What is the one advice you give others?
Tam Khan: Whatever you have a passion for, just go and do it. It may be difficult but passion bring out the best in everyone. Don’t feel pressured into what society wants. Do what pleases you. If I can do it, anyone can. We are all human and equal.
