Ritu “The Indian Tigress” Phogat has warned Stamp Fairtex that nothing is going to come between her and the iconic ONE Women’s Atomweight World Grand Prix silver belt. The Indian martial artist, who advanced into the tournament final by defeating Jenelyn Olsim at ONE: NEXTGEN last Friday, 29 October, is certain that she’s in the form of her life.

“The Indian Tigress” has enjoyed a stellar mixed martial arts career in ONE Championship so far, earning seven victories in two years, and her skills continue to improve, which has given her the belief that she can take on anyone in the division. 

“I’m going to prove to everyone that I deserve to be here, that I’m the best in the atomweight category – and I will do all that it takes to defeat Stamp,” Phogat said. 

Stamp Fairtex Says She Needs a “Smarter Game Plan” to Emerge Victorious Against Ritu Phogat at ONE: Winter Warriors

Ritu Phogat on being the underdog

While some in the mixed martial arts community firmly believe the Indian Wrestling Champion could be “the next big thing,” others tend to think differently. Her opponent, Stamp, is a formidable foe with an impressive record across three sports and has been labeled as the tournament favorite. But on paper, Phogat has defeated far better contenders on her journey.

Before her win against Olsim, she defeated then #2-ranked contender Meng Bo in the quarterfinal. She also scored a victory against former ranked contender “MMA Sister” Lin Heqin. Stamp, on the other hand, is yet to defeat a ranked athlete in the atomweight division.

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Phogat is not concerned about being labeled as the underdog. If anything, it has motivated her to silence the haters once and for all. 

“Nobody should underestimate me again. Because from all you’ve seen, I’m going to be more dangerous in my next fight and unleash everything I’ve learned. I’m ready for this challenge,” the 27-year-old athlete stated.

Ritu Phogat vs. Stamp Fairtex Atomweight Grand Prix Final Set to Take Place on 3 December

“The Indian Tigress” on her fans

Apart from proving the doubters wrong, the Evolve MMA star wants to give her loyal fans something to cheer for.

Her journey has already inspired millions around India, and a victory in the ONE Women’s Atomweight World Grand Prix Championship Final would be the perfect gift for them. 

“The fans’ love and support have kept me going. I’m extremely grateful. I want to be a shining example to the nation and the rest of the world,” she said.

Ultimately, Angela Lee’s ONE Atomweight World Title is “The Indian Tigress’s” goal. But for now, the Grand Prix final and winning the silver belt are the only things on her mind.

“In the final, I want to prove to everyone why I’m the best in the atomweight category. I’ve done my hard work, and I want to bring the belt back on my shoulder.”

[UPDATE] ONE Atomweight Rankings: Stamp Fairtex Moves Up To #2, Ritu Phogat Snubbed