Puja Tomar: Pioneering the Future of Indian MMA
Puja Tomar's Aspirations for Indian MMA
Puja Tomar, the first Indian to secure a victory in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), has shared her ambitious vision for the future of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in India. With a decade of experience, she believes that young fighters can achieve significant success in just 2-3 years with the right mentorship. Tomar aims to establish 2-3 gyms across India by 2026 to cultivate local talent and develop world-class fighters, emphasizing the need for improved training facilities in the country.
A Landmark UFC Win
On June 9 of the previous year, Tomar made history by becoming the first Indian fighter to win a match in the UFC, defeating Brazil's Rayanne Dos Santos in the Women's Strawweight division. The match was a thrilling contest that lasted all three rounds, showcasing intense back-and-forth action. Despite Santos's height advantage, Tomar fought valiantly, ultimately winning by a split decision with scores of 30-27, 27-30, and 29-28.
Her Victory: An Olympic Achievement
Tomar regards her UFC victory as equivalent to winning an Olympic medal, reflecting on the dedication and sacrifices she has made, including rigorous training, strict dietary regimens, and time spent away from home. She sees her representation of India in such a prestigious league as a monumental accomplishment, making her journey all the more rewarding.
Preparing for Upcoming Challenges
As she prepares for her next UFC bout, Tomar has hinted at a possible matchup against a Chinese competitor. She is committed to training hard to secure another victory for India.
MMA's Inclusion in the Asian Games
Earlier this year, the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) announced that MMA will debut at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. Tomar expressed her excitement about this development, confidently stating that Indian fighters are poised to win gold medals at the event.
The Cyclone's Journey
Known as 'The Cyclone' for her quick and decisive fighting style, Tomar transitioned to MMA seeking new challenges and greater exposure.