Chinese mixed martial artist Shi Ming secured a dominant submission victory over India's Pooja Tomar at the UFC event on May 29, 2026. Following her win, Shi Ming expressed her admiration for Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan and the iconic film 'Dangal', which inspired her journey in combat sports.
Shi Ming's Victory and Post-Fight Comments
Shi Ming, competing in the women's strawweight division, showcased her grappling prowess by submitting Tomar in the second round. After the fight, she spoke about her love for the 2016 Bollywood blockbuster 'Dangal', which tells the story of wrestlers Geeta and Babita Phogat. 'I am a big fan of Aamir Khan and his movie Dangal. It motivated me to pursue martial arts. I hope someday they make Dangal 2 on my life,' she said through an interpreter.
Social Media Buzz
The victory and her comments quickly went viral on social media. The UFC's official Twitter account posted: 'SHI CAME, SHI SAW, SHI CONQUERED? Shi Ming caps off #RTU5 with a dominant submission victory?' Sony Sports Network also shared a clip, writing: 'From Dangal inspiration to her own Dangal ?? Chinese UFC fighter Shi Ming shares her love for Aamir Khan and the film.'
Impact on MMA and Bollywood Crossover
Shi Ming's win and her connection to 'Dangal' highlight the global reach of Indian cinema and its influence on athletes worldwide. The film, which grossed over ₹2,000 crore worldwide, has inspired many in combat sports. Fans have already begun speculating about a potential biopic on Shi Ming, drawing parallels to the Phogat sisters' story.
Pooja Tomar, a rising star in Indian MMA, faced a tough opponent in Shi Ming. Despite the loss, Tomar's performance was praised by fans and analysts. The event marked another milestone for women's MMA in Asia, showcasing the growing talent from both countries.
