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Puja Tomar Eyes Crucial UFC Win in Macau, Boosting India's MMA Profile

Indian mixed martial artist Puja Tomar is set for a crucial strawweight bout against China's Shi Ming at UFC Macau on May 29. This marks Tomar's third UFC appearance following her historic win as the first Indian woman to triumph in the promotion. The fight is part of the Road to UFC platform, highlighting Asia's top prospects. Industry figures see her participation as evidence of India's growing structure and readiness in elite MMA.

Key Points: Puja Tomar Fights at UFC Macau in Key Strawweight Bout

  • Historic Indian MMA representation
  • Third UFC appearance for Tomar
  • Fight on Road to UFC card
  • Opponent Shi Ming is a tournament winner
  • Part of growing structure for Indian fighters
2 min read

Puja Tomar eyes crucial strawweight win at UFC Macau, boosts India's MMA presence

Indian MMA star Puja Tomar faces China's Shi Ming at UFC Macau on May 29. A win could propel her in the strawweight division and inspire a nation.

"I carry my country with me every time I enter the Octagon. - Puja Tomar"

New Delhi, April 1

India's Puja Tomar is set to return to the Ultimate Fighting Championship on May 29 for a crucial strawweight bout against China's Shi Ming at the Galaxy Arena in Macau, marking another significant milestone in India's growing footprint in global mixed martial arts.

The contest is part of the Road to UFC Season 5 card, a premier platform designed to showcase Asia's top MMA prospects and integrate them into the UFC ecosystem. The event will precede UFC Fight Night: Song vs Figueiredo, scheduled for May 30, according to a release.

For Puja Tomar, this is her third UFC appearance and a key opportunity to build momentum in the strawweight division while carrying forward India's representation in one of the world's fastest-growing combat sports categories.

Hailing from Budhana, Uttar Pradesh, Tomar's journey reflects the evolution of Indian MMA. A five-time national Wushu champion and former Matrix Fight Night titleholder, she made history in 2024 as the first Indian woman to win a UFC fight. Her aggressive striking style, high pace, and ability to absorb pressure have made her a compelling athlete to watch on the global stage.

"This fight is a big step in my journey," said Puja Tomar, Indian MMA flag bearer. "I carry my country with me every time I enter the Octagon. The preparation has been strong and focused, and I am ready to perform. I want young athletes in India to see that this path is real and achievable."

Her opponent, Shi Ming, enters the bout with strong credentials, including a win in the Road to UFC Season 3 women's strawweight tournament. Competing closer to home, Shi is expected to have strong regional support, adding further intensity to the matchup.

Industry stakeholders see Tomar's participation as a reflection of India's growing readiness to compete at elite levels in MMA. Amitesh, Founder of LegaXy, described the bout as a significant moment for the sport in the country.

"This is an important moment for Indian MMA. Puja's journey reflects the steady progress of the sport in India, where athletes are now training with greater structure and long-term intent. It also signals the growing readiness of Indian fighters to compete on bigger global stages," he said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
It's fantastic to see Indian athletes breaking into global sports like MMA. The infrastructure and training must be improving. Wishing her all the best for the fight!
V
Vikram M
A tough fight ahead. Shi Ming is no pushover and will have home crowd advantage in Macau. Puja needs to stick to her aggressive style and not get drawn into a grappling match. Her Wushu background should help. Fingers crossed!
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Priya S
More power to her! 👊 It's high time we had strong female sports icons beyond cricket. Young girls in India need to see this. Hope the media gives this fight the coverage it deserves.
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Rohit P
Respectfully, while I support Puja, we need to be realistic. One win doesn't make a trend. The article mentions "growing readiness," but where are the high-level training camps and consistent funding in India? We celebrate individuals but the system needs work.
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Kavya N
Her story from Budhana is what gets me. It shows talent is everywhere in our country, just needs opportunity and platform. All the best, didi! Bring that belt home someday.

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