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Puja Tomar makes history, becomes first Indian to win in UFC
The mixed martial arts fighter is originally from Muzaffarnagar in Uttar Pradesh.
Puja Tomar during the June.8 match. / X/@ufc
In a historic victory for India, 28-year-old MMA fighter Puja Tomar emerged triumphant at the Ultimate Fighting Championship on June.8. Originating from Uttar Pradesh, Tomar secured a monumental win against Brazil's Rayanne Amanda dos Santos by split decision at the UFC Louisville. Tomar has made history, not only as the first-ever Indian female fighter to sign up with UFC but also as the first Indian to win a bout in the championship.
The match unfolded in a fast-paced and grueling three-round bout, where both players went head-to-head. Tomar exhibited dominance throughout the stretch, ultimately defeating Santos with a score of 30-27, 27-30, 29-28.
Puja Tomar made history last night as the first fighter from India to earn a victory in the UFC! #UFCLouisville pic.twitter.com/kPg4tLHXYn
— UFC (@ufc) June 9, 2024
Who is Puja Tomar?
The UFC debutante who secured the split decision victory at UFC Louisville was born in Budhana village, Muzaffarnagar, in Uttar Pradesh. As a former national Wushu champion, Tomar has participated in other action-packed leagues, including Matrix Fight Night and One Championship.
After experiencing four consecutive losses in ONE Championship, Tomar joined Matrix Fight Night (MFN) in 2021. She won four bouts in MFN, including a title defense against Russia’s Anastasia Feofanova in July.
Securing her UFC contract last year, Tomar has showcased her prowess as one of India's top women fighters on the world stage. Reportedly training at the Soma Fight Club in Bali, Indonesia, the Muzaffarnagar native, fondly addressed as "The Cyclone”, achieved her impressive victory over a decade after the UFC officially opened the cage to women fighting in 2013.
According to her UFC profile, Tomar embarked on her martial arts journey at the age of 12 following the loss of her father.
Tomar, who has represented India in the World Wushu Championship, became a professional fighter in 2013 after winning the MFN strawweight Championship. Her favorite grappling technique is the Heel Hook, while her preferred striking technique is the Side Kick.
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