Puja Tomar: India's First Woman MMA Fighter to Win in UFC

On June 8, 2024, Puja Tomar etched her name in the annals of Indian mixed martial arts (MMA) history by becoming the first-ever Indian woman to compete and win a bout in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The 30-year-old MMA fighter from Uttar Pradesh's Budhana village defeated Brazil's Rayanne Amanda dos Santos in a thrilling three-round strawweight bout at UFC Louisville.

Tomar's victory, which came via a split decision (30-27, 27-30, 29-28), not only marked her triumphant UFC debut but also shattered barriers for aspiring Indian female fighters. With her pioneering spirit and relentless determination, Tomar has opened avenues that were previously deemed unattainable for Indian women in the world of MMA.

Puja Tomar's Journey

Puja Tomar's journey to the UFC has been a testament to her unwavering passion for martial arts. Born into a family that faced adversity early on, Tomar lost her father at a young age, prompting her to take up karate and kickboxing at the age of 12 to protect her family.

Tomar's natural talent and dedication propelled her to become a five-time national wushu champion, showcasing her prowess in the ancient Chinese martial art. She also excelled in other combat sports, such as karate and taekwondo, winning multiple medals and championships along the way.

Prior to her UFC debut, Tomar competed in various MMA promotions, including Matrix Fight Night and One Championship, where she claimed the strawweight title twice. Her impressive performances caught the attention of the UFC, and in October 2023, she became the third Indian and the first Indian woman to sign a contract with the world's premier MMA organization.

Paving the Way for Indian Women in MMA

Puja Tomar's historic victory at UFC Louisville has ignited hope and inspiration for countless young Indian women aspiring to make their mark in the world of MMA. Her triumph not only shattered glass ceilings but also served as a resounding reminder of the immense potential and talent that lies within the Indian martial arts community.

In her post-fight interview, Tomar expressed her determination to continue breaking barriers and to pave the way for future Indian fighters. "I want to show the world that Indian fighters are not losers. We are going all the way up! We are not going to stop! We'll become a UFC champion soon!" she exclaimed, her words resonating with a sense of pride and ambition.

Tomar's journey has been fueled by the unwavering support of her mother, whom she dedicates her victories to. Her mother's simple yet powerful advice, "Puja, just fight," has been a driving force behind her success, reminding her of the resilience and determination that have propelled her to where she is today.

As Puja Tomar continues to make her mark in the UFC, she stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring Indian female fighters. Her relentless spirit and trailblazing accomplishments have not only opened doors but have also ignited a fire within the hearts of countless young women who now have a role model to look up to in the world of mixed martial arts.