Ritu Phogat Wants Stamp Fairtex Next

Ritu “The Indian Tigress” Phogat may be one of the fastest rising female stars in mixed martial arts, and she has her sights set on the next challenge.

Despite transitioning to the sport in 2019, the Commonwealth Wrestling Championships gold medalist already owns back-to-back wins in ONE Championship.

In order to stake her place among the leading women atomweight contenders, Phogat believes she needs to first conquer mixed martial arts star Stamp Fairtex.

It’s not hard to see why.

Stamp – the reigning ONE Atomweight Muay Thai World Champion – has been a dominant force in mixed martial arts, boasting a 4-0 record.

“Stamp is a very talented athlete. I really like her zeal for martial arts. She is already a World Champion in two sports, and there is so much to learn from her,” Phogat said.

While “The Indian Tigress” might be comparatively new to the sport, she witnessed how Stamp parlayed her Muay Thai skillset into success in both kickboxing and mixed martial arts.

The Indian athlete has trained extensively to shore up her striking, and she believes that she, too, can achieve the same success by leveraging her famed wrestling credentials to become a more complete mixed martial artist.

“We both have our strengths. She has more experience in the Circle than me right now, but I think both of us will have to adapt to different styles, as she is very good in Muay Thai and kickboxing, so she will definitely take the game to her strengths,” she said. “When I face her, I have to definitely step up my game in striking.”

“The Indian Tigress” knows Stamp has put away all her previous challengers, including two of Phogat’s compatriots – Asha “Knockout Queen” Roka and Puja “The Cyclone” Tomar.

However, Phogat is unfazed and remains focused on her ambition to become India’s first mixed martial arts World Champion.

“As I said, she is a very, very good athlete, and of course when the time comes, I would love to compete against her,” Phogat said.

“My dream is to become World Champion one day and to do that, I have to go up against every top athlete here and win.”

Even though any plans for a blockbuster showdown is likely on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Phogat is still training hard in preparation for her return.

“I have kept a schedule for myself, and I am following it strictly. The schedule includes functional training like yoga, cardio, and strength,” she said.

“My coach gave me a few drills to do at home to sharpen my focus and movements, and eventually it will help in improving my skills. Also, I am shadow boxing and practicing my kicks a few times a week to improve my movements.

“So whenever ONE decides to get me a match with Stamp, I promise you I will be ready to face her.”