Puja Tomar Makes History as First Indian MMA Fighter to Win at UFC

Budhana-born Champion Carves a Path for Indian MMA with Debut Victory

Puja Tomar, a 28-year-old Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter from Budhana village in Uttar Pradesh’s Muzaffarnagar, has become the first Indian to secure a win in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Her historic victory on June 9 in Louisville, USA, marked a significant milestone in Indian MMA.

Tomar triumphed over Brazilian fighter Rayanne dos Santos in a tightly contested 52 kg bout. The match, decided by a split decision with scores of 30-27, 27-30, and 29-28, showcased Tomar's determination and skill. Despite losing the second round, she bounced back fiercely in the third, landing several critical punches that secured her place in the annals of Indian MMA history.

Expressing her emotions after the victory, Tomar highlighted her rigorous preparation and the significance of her win. “I have really worked hard for it,” she said, reflecting on the long journey from her village to the global MMA stage.

A Journey Rooted in Wushu

Before stepping into the UFC, Tomar made her mark as a Wushu champion, winning five national titles. She started training in martial arts at the age of 12, following the death of her father, to protect her family. Her journey in combat sports began with karate and kickboxing, eventually leading her to Wushu, where she achieved considerable success.

Tomar made her international debut in the Super Fight League in 2012 and later competed in the ONE Championship, a leading South Asian MMA platform. Her prowess was further established with four consecutive wins in the Matrix Fight Night, culminating in her first international title win in 2022 as the Matrix Fight Night (MFN) strawweight champion.

Breaking Barriers in UFC

Tomar’s UFC debut was not just a personal victory but a landmark moment for Indian MMA. Training at the Soma Fight Club in Bali, Indonesia, she earned the moniker “The Cyclone” for her fierce fighting style. Her UFC profile notes her favorite techniques as the Heel Hook for grappling and the Side Kick for striking.

Her success story is an inspiration, showing the world that Indian fighters are formidable contenders. Tomar dedicated her win to her mother, who has been a steadfast supporter throughout her journey, often advising her with the simple but powerful words: “Puja, just fight.”

Tomar’s achievement is set to open new avenues for Indian MMA fighters on the global stage, with her sights firmly set on becoming a UFC champion. As she proclaimed after her win, “We are going all the way up! We are not going to stop!”

Reference:

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