UFC heavyweight Arjan Bhullar, the promotion's first fighter of South Indian origin and Sikh faith, was not allowed to wear a turban when he debuted in September. Bhullar -- who went on to defeat Luis Henrique by unanimous decision at UFC 215 -- said the company cited apparel restrictions for the decision. He believes that may change when he next competes in the Octagon.
"Moving forward, I'm hoping to make (permission to wear the turban) a reality," Bhullar (7-0) told MMAJunkie.com. "Not only that, but bring some awareness to what that's about. There are obviously others out there who do not understand what that means for a culture like ours.
"As an athlete, I want to do more than just compete in the cage, so there's a perfect scenario for me."
Bhullar, 31, is a former Canadian wrestling champion who competed for the country at the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London. He fought six times for the Battlefield Fight League in British Columbia, Canada, prior to signing with the UFC in May.
His next opponent and fight date is not set.
"If they realize, (wearing a turban) doesn't conflict with Reebok athletes code for clothing," he said. "I brought it up, and it's getting bounced around beyond that."