📷 Image Credits: The Times of India
Puja Tomar, a 30-year-old mixed martial arts fighter from India, recently made history as the first Indian fighter to secure a victory at the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Her remarkable journey culminated in a thrilling split-decision win over Brazil’s Rayanne dos Santos at UFC Louisville on Saturday, June 8. Tomar’s debut at the UFC marked a significant milestone for Indian fighters globally.
Born in Budhana village in Uttar Pradesh’s Muzaffarnagar, Tomar has a rich background in martial arts, having won the UFC contract last year to become the first woman from India to compete in the prestigious MMA promotion. Her nickname ‘cyclone’ aptly describes her tenacity and fighting spirit, which propelled her to success in the octagon.
The intense battle against dos Santos in the straw-weight category saw Tomar showcase her skills and determination, eventually clinching the victory with a split decision of 30-27, 27-30, 29-28. In her post-fight interview, Tomar expressed her desire to prove to the world that Indian fighters are a force to be reckoned with. She emphasized that her win was not just her own but a victory for Indian fans and fighters alike.
Tomar’s win has garnered widespread praise, with UFC Senior Vice President, Kevin Chang, lauding her as a pioneer for women’s MMA in India. The significance of her triumph extends beyond personal achievement, shedding light on the potential for Indian fighters to excel on the global MMA stage.
Having honed her skills as a five-time national wushu champion with a background in karate and taekwondo, Tomar’s journey to UFC victory exemplifies dedication and resilience. Her win serves as an inspiration for aspiring fighters in India, demonstrating that with hard work and determination, barriers can be overcome, and history can be made.
Puja Tomar’s remarkable feat at UFC Louisville signifies a new chapter in Indian MMA, setting the stage for future fighters to follow in her footsteps and leave an indelible mark on the world of mixed martial arts.
