Puja Tomar, an Indian professional mixed martial artist, has transitioned from a Wushu fighter to a pioneering UFC athlete, becoming the first Indian woman to compete and win in the organization.
Puja Tomar became the first Indian woman to sign with the UFC, a major milestone in her career. She made her debut against Rayanne dos Santos on June 8, 2024, winning via split decision. This partnership elevated her to a global platform, representing India in the highest level of mixed martial arts.
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Puja Tomar, born on December 25, 1993, in Budhana, Uttar Pradesh, India, began her martial arts journey by training in Wushu at a young age to protect her family after her father’s passing. This early dedication led her to represent India at the World Wushu Championship. Her career in combat sports evolved as she entered mixed martial arts, initially competing in regional promotions like Super Fight League in 2013. Her early career saw her gaining experience and building a foundation in the sport before progressing to more prominent stages. Tomar’s combat sports path reflects a consistent pursuit of professional growth and an overcoming of societal challenges often faced by girls in sports in her home country.
Tomar’s professional journey advanced significantly with her entry into ONE Championship in 2017, where she gained international experience across several fights. After her tenure with ONE Championship, she joined Matrix Fight Night, where she secured notable victories and captured the inaugural MFN Women’s Strawweight Championship in 2022. She successfully defended this title in 2023. These achievements positioned her for a major career turning point when she signed with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in October 2023, marking her as the first India-born woman to join the promotion. Her UFC debut in June 2024 further solidified her impact, as she secured a split decision victory, becoming the first Indian woman to win a bout in the UFC.
Throughout her career, Tomar has consistently demonstrated resilience and dedication. Her progression from regional competitions to international platforms like ONE Championship and ultimately the UFC highlights her commitment to the sport. She has developed her skills across various divisions including Bantamweight, Flyweight, Strawweight, and Atomweight, consistently seeking opportunities for advancement. Her impact extends beyond the octagon, as she represents a pioneering figure for female athletes in India, opening doors for future generations in mixed martial arts. Her mother’s unwavering support and advice, “Puja, just fight,” have been a consistent motivational factor throughout her demanding journey.
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