Puja Tomar, India’s first female fighter in the UFC, won her debut encounter on Sunday.
Tomar, from Uttar Pradesh, met Rayanne dos Santos at strawweight in the card’s opening battle.
Tomar and Dos Santos competed in all three rounds, which lasted 15 minutes and featured rigorous, fast-paced back and forth fighting. Santos dominated the action with her height and range, but Tomar fought to the end, causing damage. When the scorecards were read, Tomar won by split decision (30-27, 27-30, 29-28).
“I want the world to know that Indian warriors are not losers. We’re going all the way up! We will not stop! We’ll become UFC champions shortly! “This victory is not mine; it is for all Indian fans and fighters,” she stated.
I felt so pleased as I marched out to my Indian song, holding the Indian flag. I had goosebumps. There was no pressure inside (the Octagon); I just thought, ‘I have to win’. I took two or three punches, but I am fine. “I’m going to improve myself and work my way up.”
Kevin Chang, UFC’s Senior Vice President and Head of Asia, praised Tomar’s historic victory.
“Puja Tomar is a pioneer in women’s MMA in India, and her victory made history. India has a long history of women excelling in combat sports, and the UFC has provided a platform for women to flourish since 2013, so Puja’s debut demonstrates how far the sport has progressed,” Chang added.
“We are looking forward to Puja continuing to put on amazing performances as she represents India.”
