Athlete Withdrew After Sauna Weight-Loss Collapse
A fighter collapsed due to dehydration while trying to shed weight quickly for a competition.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Weight Loss
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Varun Sanyal withdrew from his Asian Games quarterfinal bout after being declared medically unfit. He had reportedly passed out in a sauna while attempting to drop weight quickly before his scheduled weigh-in.
Why it matters
Combat athletes often use rapid, aggressive weight-cutting techniques to reach specific weight classes, but these practices can trigger severe dehydration and dangerous physical collapse. This incident underscores the acute physiological strain of attempting to lose significant body mass in a matter of hours.
A medical evaluation diagnosed Varun Sanyal with mild dehydration and bloodwork showed blood urea nitrogen at the upper end of the normal range. While a 4kg loss is common for some athletes, the recommended timeframe for such a reduction is three weeks rather than a single night.
The players
Varun Sanyal
A combat athlete who withdrew from the Asian Games following a medical emergency.
Vinesh Phogat
A combat athlete who previously struggled to meet weight requirements at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The details
Athletes in combat sports often attempt to hit weight categories by engaging in rapid weight loss, which frequently involves heavy exercise, wearing insulating layers, and using saunas to force water loss. These methods are used to avoid the strength and energy deficits associated with long-term caloric restriction, but they can lead to electrolyte imbalances and overheating. When the body loses water too quickly, the cardiovascular system struggles to maintain blood pressure, which can result in passing out.
Timeline
September 19, 2026: Varun Sanyal withdrew from the Asian Games.
2024: Vinesh Phogat attempted weight cutting at the Paris Olympics.
Health Landscape
This incident highlights the persistent risks associated with the industry-wide practice of rapid weight cutting in combat sports. It follows the precedent of similar weight-management challenges seen during the 2024 Paris Olympics, drawing attention to the tension between sports regulations and athlete safety.
Rapid, non-supervised weight loss through dehydration is dangerous and can lead to immediate cardiovascular collapse. If you are pursuing a weight-loss goal, prioritize safe, sustainable rates of loss and discuss any restrictive plans with your doctor.
The takeaway
Rapidly inducing dehydration to lose weight poses severe risks to your cardiovascular and metabolic health. Always prioritize gradual weight loss methods and consult with a medical professional before making significant changes to your body weight or dietary habits.
Further reading
For more on the risks of rapid mass reduction, visit our Weight Loss section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Hindustan Times.
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