Puja Tomar Faces Crucial UFC Fight Against Shi Ming in Macau

Puja Tomar will face Shi Ming in Macau on May 29, 2026, in a crucial UFC bout. Tomar, India’s first female UFC fighter, currently holds a 1-1 record and seeks a win to maintain momentum and visibility for Indian MMA. Shi Ming, a Chinese strawweight, won the Road to UFC Season 3 tournament and is known for her knockout of Feng Xiaocan. Tomar remains unfazed by Ming’s credentials, citing her own UFC experience and harder training. A win is pivotal for Tomar to keep her options open in the UFC, given her age (32) and the organization’s performance-based roster management. Tomar’s journey began in Budhana, Muzaffarnagar, where she started with karate, transitioned to Wushu (winning national golds), and eventually turned to MMA. She rebuilt her career through India’s Matrix Fight Night, earning a UFC contract in 2023. Tomar believes her presence and potential wins will grow Indian MMA, especially if the UFC hosts an event in India, comparing its potential popularity to the IPL. The fight also marks a moment for South Asian MMA, with another Indian (Chungreng Koren) and a Nepali (Rabindra Dhant) competing on the same Road to UFC card. Tomar reflects on the shift in Indian perception of MMA, from explaining the sport to now inspiring younger generations, including her niece. The stakes are high, with a win keeping her road open in the UFC.