The Indian MMA scene couldn’t have asked for better as Puja Tomar made history at UFC Louisville. The 30-year-old from Uttar Pradesh, India, became the first Indian to secure a victory inside the illustrious octagon of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. She showcased a relentless spirit and a tenacity that reflected her nickname, “The Cyclone.”
Tomar faced Brazil’s Rayanne dos Santos in the women’s strawweight division at UFC Louisville. The card was headlined by Jared Cannonier vs. Nassourdine Imavov in a sold-out arena in Louisville. From the outset, Tomar dominated the opening round with a whirlwind of powerful body kicks that had dos Santos think twice about advancing.
The second round saw the Brazilian mount a spirited comeback, forcing Tomar onto the back foot with her constant pressure. However, Tomar refused to back down. She countered effectively while moving backward and even matching dos Santos’ kick in a thrilling exchange. As the final round approached, the bout hung in the balance. Tomar unleashed her primal roars at dos Santos while slugging it out.
The Indian fighter threw a counter right that shook the balance of dos Santos. Tomar unleashed a decisive push kick that sent dos Santos crashing to the canvas, securing her a hard-fought split-decision victory. With her victory, Tomar shattered glass ceilings at her UFC debut. She also silenced the doubters who questioned whether she belonged on the grandest stage of them all.
Puja Tomar dedicated her debut UFC win to her mother
Fighters anywhere in the world dedicate their wins to some event or a person that prompted them to delve deep and overcome adversity. India’s very own Puja Tomar made history as the first fighter from the country to win a UFC bout. Another fighter, Anshul Jubli from India, had previously fought in the UFC. However, he lost his fight.
Puja Tomar dedicates her win at UFC on ESPN 57 to her mother (via myKhel)Tomar revealed that this momentous achievement held an even deeper significance. She gave a tribute to the unwavering support and sacrifices of her “fighter” mother.
My journey in MMA and martial arts have never been easy. It was really hard. I reared this win in my heart and mind. This win is for my mummy (mother), she fought against this world for me. This win was of course for India, but at the same time, this was for my mother.
Puja Tomar via Chamatkar Sandhu of Sony Sports Network
Tomar’s journey has been a testament to the power of a mother’s love and the strength it can instill in her child. This is especially true in a sport that demands immense physical and mental fortitude. Puja Tomar prepares to return home, where a hero’s welcome undoubtedly awaits her, and her mother standing ahead of them all to welcome her daughter.
