“India definitely has a huge pool of talent, and I truly believe we’re just at the beginning of something special.”
As Puja Tomar made this statement, she stands as the current flag bearer for India in the world of MMA. A five-time Wushu national champion with a backstory built on grit, resilience and sacrifice, she created history as the first Indian fighter to secure a win in the UFC.
She almost made it 2-0 before a small error in judgment ended in defeat in her second fight for the promotion. When we first caught up with her after that historic moment, the story was all about the journey that took her to the UFC. But now, as she prepares for her third fight in the promotion at UFC Macau on May 29 against Shi Ming, the narrative has shifted towards consolidation, growth and building something bigger beyond the octagon.
Speaking to India Today exclusively, Puja said she focusses on growth rather than just results. More than a victory, she wants to show the world how much she is evolving every single time she steps into the cage.
“For me, it’s always about growth, not just the result. Becoming the first Indian fighter to win in the UFC was a proud moment, but every fight teaches you something new. The last one didn’t go my way, but it gave me clarity on where I need to improve. Heading into this third fight, my focus is on delivering a complete performance, being sharper, more composed, and showing how much I’ve evolved as a fighter. I want to represent my country with pride, inspire others back home, and prove that I belong at this level. A win is important, of course, but more than that, I want to make a statement about my resilience, mindset and continuous progress,” said Puja.
IMPACT BEYOND THE CAGE
Despite the growing interest and the increasing presence of fighters like Puja, India still remains a sleeping giant in MMA. The 32-year-old, who went through the grind in ONE Championship and Matrix Fight Night, believes there is no shortage of talent in the country. Instead, the real challenge lies in the lack of a proper ecosystem.
“The challenge isn’t the lack of fighters; it’s more about the surrounding ecosystem. We still need stronger grassroots development, better access to world-class coaching, more exposure to international competition, and consistent support systems. When it comes to the UFC, it’s the highest level of the sport and the competition there is incredibly intense. Fighters are not only skilled but also have years of structured training, international experience, and strong backing from teams and promotions,” said Puja.
The strawweight contender has also become a beacon of hope for female fighters across the country. Having consistently spoken about the need for more Indian women to enter MMA, the 32-year-old is happy to see more talent stepping up and embracing the sport without fear.
She believes that with the right investment and support, India can soon make a far bigger impact on the global MMA stage.
“For female fighters, the journey can be even tougher because of fewer opportunities limited platforms and sometimes societal expectations. But that’s changing now more women are stepping into the sport with confidence and organisations like the UFC are continuing to expand and create more visibility for women’s divisions.”
“With the right investment support and belief, Indian fighters, especially women, will break more barriers and make a bigger mark globally. I’m proud to be part of that movement and to help open doors for the next generation,” said Puja.
Puja wants to push those doors open for the next generation not just through her performances inside the cage and by racking up wins, but also through a dream she is cautiously excited about — opening her own academy in India.
For Puja, however, that step will only come when she can give her complete attention to nurturing young talent. More than just producing champions, she wants to create athletes who are mentally strong and ready to carry the Indian flag on the world stage.
“Opening my own academy is a big dream of mine, and I’m working towards making it happen at the right time. I don’t want to rush it I want to build something strong, professional and truly valuable for upcoming athletes. The plan is to start taking concrete steps very soon once I can give it the full attention it deserves.”
“My goal with the academy is to create a platform where young fighters, especially girls get the right guidance, training, and support from day one. I want to build an environment where talent is nurtured properly with good coaching discipline and the right mindset.”
“More than just producing champions, my aim is to build confident individuals who believe in themselves and are ready to represent India on the global stage. If I can help even a few athletes reach their dreams that will be a huge success for me,” said Puja.
AN OLYMPIC DREAM
This year’s Asian Games will see MMA make a historic debut, a landmark moment for the sport in Asia. With the continent already packed with elite-level talent, the battle for medals is expected to be fierce. But beyond the Asian Games, the bigger dream remains to see MMA become an Olympic sport.
While 2028 Summer Olympics will not feature MMA, Puja believes the sport’s inclusion in the Asian Games is proof of how rapidly it is gaining acceptance globally and inching closer towards the Olympic dream.
“I would definitely love to see MMA become a regular feature in such multi-sport events and one day even move closer to the Olympics. That kind of platform gives fighters a chance to represent their country with pride and inspires the next generation to take up the sport seriously.”
“From my journey in the UFC I’ve learnt how important global exposure is. Competing at the highest level teaches you discipline, adaptability and mental strength. If MMA continues to grow through events like the Asian Games, it will only help produce more fighters who are ready for organisations like the UFC,” said Puja.
So does the fighter from Budhana see herself competing at the Olympics if MMA eventually makes the cut? Her eyes lit up at the very thought of it. For Puja, the dream goes beyond personal success. It is about carrying the Indian flag with pride on the biggest sporting stage in the world.
“If MMA ever becomes part of the Olympics, it would be a huge honour for me to represent India. My biggest motivation has always been to make my country proud on the biggest stage. The Olympics is the highest platform in sports, and competing there for India would be a dream come true. I know the level will be extremely high, so it would require a lot of hard work, discipline and sacrifice. I would need to keep improving every part of my game and stay fully focused on my preparation.”
“But more than anything, it would be about pride and responsibility. Wearing the Indian flag on such a global stage and representing my country would mean everything to me. I would give my best to make India proud,” said Puja.
The Cyclone is now ready to take over in Macau on May 29. But for Puja, every fight is about far more than just another result on her record. It is another opportunity to raise the Indian flag high, inspire the next generation and continue her climb in the UFC.
– Ends
